Computer Engineering Major
Computer Engineering is the design of computer hardware and the systems that bridge hardware and software. It is a major within Engineering & Technology.
Computer Engineering is the study of how computers and computing devices are designed, built, and made to work. It focuses on the physical components—processors, memory, circuits—and the systems that connect hardware to software, allowing programs to actually run on machines. Computer engineers ask questions like: How do we make chips faster and more efficient? How do we design systems that are reliable and secure? What trade-offs exist between power, speed, and cost? The major combines electrical principles with computer science, requiring both theoretical understanding and hands-on problem-solving skills.
Students drawn to Computer Engineering typically enjoy working at the intersection of physical systems and computation. They are often curious about how devices actually function at a fundamental level, and they appreciate both abstract reasoning and concrete, practical work. The major typically begins with foundational courses in mathematics, physics, and basic computer science, establishing core concepts in circuits and programming. As students progress, they move toward specialized areas such as digital design, embedded systems, or computer architecture, working on increasingly complex projects that integrate multiple concepts together.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Computer Engineering program commonly includes topics such as:
- Digital logic
- Computer architecture
- Embedded systems
- Microprocessors
- Operating systems
- Signal processing
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Computer Engineering is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Computer Engineering background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Computer engineer
- Embedded systems engineer
- Hardware engineer
- Firmware developer
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Computer Engineering major?
Computer Engineering is the design of computer hardware and the systems that bridge hardware and software. It is part of engineering & technology, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Computer Engineering majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as digital logic, computer architecture, embedded systems, microprocessors, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Computer Engineering major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as computer engineer, embedded systems engineer, hardware engineer. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Computer Engineering offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.