Computer engineering degree programs offer students a chance to
pursue a career in the theoretical aspects of computers,
computation, and process development. The field of computer
engineering has grown considerably with the advances in
technology and the internet, and many computer engineers are
involved with experimentation and design of programs,
implementation of new processes, and staying ahead of market
trends. While a degree in computer science may also qualify for
many jobs within computer engineering, computer engineering
courses and degree programs focus on the technical aspect of
engineering as well. A computer engineering school provides
students with the training and knowledge they need to pursue a
successful computer engineering career.
What Is Computer
Engineering?
Computer engineering focuses on solving programming problems, developing new
software and hardware, and applying both algorithmic and object-oriented problem
solving techniques. Understanding how data and computer structures work is a
fundamental computer engineering course, and a computer engineering school
prepares students with both the technical and theoretical aspects of the field
as part of a computer engineering degree program. Computer engineering is used
in a variety of industries such as manufacturing, industrial, media, and web
development. A computer engineer may also choose to work in the field of
programming and software development where they design processes from scratch.
Job Description and
Responsibilities of a Computer Engineer
A
computer engineer is often responsible for:
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Developing and designing communications systems
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Developing networks
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Maintaining system stability
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Performing network modeling procedures and conducting research
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Implementing new user interfaces and database systems
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Designing programming tools or knowledge-based systems
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Planning and testing both hardware and software
Typical Computer
Engineering Careers
After
completing training at a computer engineering school, certification in a
specialized area of study is highly recommended. Specialization may involve
acquiring key skills in a programming language or computer engineering course,
and can help a graduate pursue a job in the highly competitive industry. The
most common computer engineering careers include:
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Data
communications analysts
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Telecommunications specialists
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Database administrators
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Computer scientists
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Webmasters and web developers
A
computer engineering degree provides students with the hands-on skills and
applications they need to succeed in the industry. With the rapid advances and
changes on the Internet, it is even more important for students to gain a firm
understanding and continue their education throughout their career.
Data communications analysts
and administrators work with database management software to make sure that all
operations are running smoothly. They may also be involved with coordinating
security efforts such as backup and restoration systems. Telecommunications
specialists are focused on connectivity issues with computer and communications
equipment, and may work on the design and implementation of data communication
systems. Computer scientists may work as theorists, inventors, or simply as
researchers. They are often involved with advanced levels of programming, and
generally work in the private sector to create and design programming tools and
knowledge-based systems. Webmasters and web developers are involved with the
design and development of Web sites and servers. They are responsible for all
technical aspects of the Web site, but may also work in the areas of web design
and content creation.
Computer Engineering
Technology Degree
A computer engineering
technology degree provides students with a diverse range of subjects and
specializations within the field. These degree programs are often a combination
of computer science and engineering, but focus on consumer products and
equipment. Training within this field may lead to a career in research,
manufacturing, security, communications, or the medical industry.
Computer Engineering
Courses, Training Programs, and Computer Engineering Degrees
Design and development of
computer technology is the basis for all computer engineering degree programs,
and each program may become specialized during the course of study. The most
common computer engineering courses include:
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Analytical Methods and
Sciences in Mathematics
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Signal Processing
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Digital Circuits and
Microprocessor
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Software Design
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Networks
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Technology Accreditation
While a technical degree
offers graduates a chance to pursue entry-level jobs, a degree can help open up
opportunities for a long-term computer engineering career. Having strong
problem-solving skills, understanding computer systems and technologies from the
ground up, and developing innovative analytical skills are all helpful in
securing a desirable position in the industry. Certification can be a supplement
to a computer engineering degree program, providing specialization within a
specific area. Many product vendors and software firms provide professional
training options and certification, along with organizations focused on the
development of computer specialists.
Computer engineering degrees
and programs vary by region, but are commonly found as an extension of an
engineering program or computer science department. The information technology
department of many colleges and universities is often involved with developing
the curriculum for computer engineering degrees, and online courses are also
available.
Computer Engineering Degree
Accreditation
Both online and on site
computer engineering degree programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board
for Education and Technology (ABET). This organization is also responsible for
monitoring and certifying each branch of other engineering degree programs, and
The Higher Learning Commission of each region may also be involved.
Future Employment Prospects
and Earning Potential for a Computer Engineering Career
The
fields of computer science and database administration are the largest sectors
of computer engineering, and many firms employ graduates of computer engineering
school as interns. The disaster recovery services and software installation
divisions are growing, along with the World Wide Web and internet-related
industries. The government, universities, and manufacturers of computer
products are additional sectors of the economy that have created a demand for
skilled computer engineering professionals.
The
demand for computer scientists and database administrators is expected to grow
much faster than average through 2014, and all web-based and Internet positions
are expected to be one of the fastest growing industries overall. With the rise
in complex technology and sophisticated computer systems there will not be a
shortage of attractive computer engineering careers across almost every
industry.
The
median salary for computer and information scientists was $85,190 in 2004, and
$60,650 for database administrators in the same year. Related occupations
include:
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