What it is
Computer engineering combines electrical engineering and computer science — designing the hardware and low-level software of computing systems, from microprocessors and circuits to embedded systems and devices. It bridges the physical and logical sides of computing.
What you'll study
All engineering builds a rigorous math-and-science core, then specializes:
- Year 1–2Calculus, differential equations, physics, chemistry, intro engineering
- Year 2–3Core engineering science and digital logic, computer architecture, embedded systems, and electronics
- Year 3–4Advanced discipline courses, labs, and a capstone design project
- ThroughoutDesign, teamwork, and often co-ops/internships (many programs ABET-accredited)
Concentrations & focus areas
- Hardware / VLSIChip design
- Embedded SystemsDevices
- Computer ArchitectureSystem design
- Robotics / MechatronicsAutomation
- Networking HardwareInfrastructure
- Systems / FPGAReconfigurable computing
Skills you'll build
Engineers build a powerful, transferable skill set:
- Analytical problem-solvingBreaking down hard problems
- Math & modelingQuantitative rigor
- DesignCreating and testing solutions
- Technical softwareDiscipline-specific tools
- Teamwork & communicationProjects and clients
Careers & job titles
This discipline leads to roles such as:
- Computer hardware engineerChips & systems (~$155,020)
- Embedded systems engineerDevices
- Hardware / VLSI engineerChip design
- Firmware engineerLow-level software
- Systems engineerHardware + software
- Semiconductor industry rolesChips
Job outlook & demand
The BLS projects the architecture & engineering group to grow faster than average, with about 174,800 openings a year. Computer engineering is projected to grow faster than average, with strong demand from semiconductors, devices, and embedded systems. Engineering skills are in demand across industry, technology, energy, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Engineering pays well above average. Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer hardware engineers had a median of $155,020 (2024) — among the highest engineering wages — versus the all-occupation median of about $50,980. Earnings rise with experience, a graduate degree, and (in many fields) the Professional Engineer (PE) license; senior engineers, specialists, and managers earn well into six figures.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
A bachelor's (BEng/BS) is the entry credential; a master's deepens specialization and a PhD leads research. The PE license matters in many fields.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you enjoy math and science, like designing and building solutions, and want a well-paid, respected profession with strong job security.
Worth knowing: engineering is rigorous, and many roles benefit from the PE license (via the FE exam, experience, and the PE exam). Internships and co-ops strongly boost early careers.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- FocusComputer hardware + low-level software
- StudyDigital logic, architecture, embedded systems
- BlendElectrical engineering + computer science
- OutlookFaster than average (BLS)
- Pay$155,020 (hardware engineers, BLS)
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: