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What Does a Career in Computer Engineering Entail?

Computer engineers typically work in research labs. They research, develop, design, test, and modify computer components such as memory devices, circuit boards, routers, processors, and networks as well as computer systems, computer architecture, and embedded systems. Because computer engineers, including those working with hardware and software, are the architects of the computer world, they may work closely with software developers to assure system compatibility before a program or new product is released.

Although the field considers a bachelor's degree as an entry-level education, experience is another requirement, so you could conceivably enter the field in a lower position and gain experience as you earn your degree. Larger corporations may require a master's degree as a condition of employment, and because computer technology is constantly evolving, computer hardware engineers, and those who work in software engineering or software development, should plan to continue their education with higher-level degree programs throughout their career as they aim for job growth.

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Components of A Successful Career in Computer Engineering

To have a successful career in computer engineering you'll need more than the ability to design hardware or software and education in engineering and computer science. You'll need analytical skills to determine the needs of each specific project and the best way to design it, and you'll need-critical thinking skills to identify the weaknesses and strengths of each solution you consider. You'll also need to have communication and problem-solving skills if you plan on entering this field.

Although some employers will accept a computer science or an electrical engineering degree, if you take one of these degree programs, you'll still need to take courses specific to computer hardware engineering or software engineering and software development. Because hardware engineers and software engineers often work with software developers you should also have a solid knowledge of computer programming.

Because experience is vital to this position, you can use an internship to gain valuable on-the-job knowledge. If your bachelor's degree program doesn't include an internship, you should consider a summer job or part-time position to gain hands-on experience while attending school.

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How to Earn an Online Computer Engineering Degree

Typical Online Computer Engineering Degree Requirements

Although you might need a bachelor's computer engineering degree to be hired directly as a computer engineer, you can enter the general field in a lower position with an associate degree and gain valuable experience. Your associate degree could be in computer science or you might find some engineering degree programs at this level, and they will require 60 credit hours which will include your core classes. You'll learn the basics of computer systems as well as circuitry and basic system development.

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Your online bachelor's computer engineering degree program will require another 60 hours for a total of 120 credit hours. You'll learn how to develop, research, create, and test computer software, and you'll take intensive computer engineering courses with a concentration on mathematics.

Most computer engineering specialists continue their education after beginning work in the field and, to earn your online master's degree, you'll need another 36 to 54 credit hours of coursework. It will focus on hardware engineering, software engineering and computer science, computer systems, embedded systems, as well as advanced methods of circuitry, electrical engineering, programming, and design.

Typical Computer Engineering Certifications & Requirements

computer_hardware_engineering_certifications_neededAlthough there are no state or federal certification requirements for computer engineers, you may wish to earn certification in your area of expertise. Certification shows that computer engineers are experts in their field and it is an excellent way to showcase knowledge while they are earning advanced computer engineering degrees. Here are some examples of specialty certifications you might earn:

  • ARM Accredited Engineer (AAE)
  • Certified Computer Security Incident Handler (CSIH)
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional Wireless (CCNP Wireless)
  • Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)
  • Professional Software Engineering Master Certification

Academic Standards for Online Computer Engineering Degrees

Most graduate school programs require a minimum 3.0 grade point average (GPA) for admittance, and some of the more competitive schools require a GPA of 3.4 or higher. Many scholarships and grants have the same minimum GPA requirements, so maintaining a high grade can pay for your education. In addition, most employers require school transcripts as part of the employment process, so maintaining high academic standards in the classroom can play a part in you getting the job you really want. If you're having trouble in one or more classes, you should consider tutoring in order to keep your GPA up to par.

Computer Engineering Exams and Experience Required

Although there is no state exam requirement to work in the computer engineering field you will need experience. According to Payscale, roughly one quarter of employers require six months to a year experience and another quarter require one to two years experience.

If your online bachelor's in computer engineering degree requires an internship, this will likely count toward your experience, as will working in a lower position within the computer programming or computer engineering industry. Many employers offer education premiums to their employees, so you might hire in at a lower position and have your computer engineering degree or advanced computer science degree paid for while you work.

Computer Engineering Degree Choices & Courses

As mentioned above, your online associate's degree or the first two years of an online bachelor's in computer engineering degree will prepare you to enter the field of computer engineering in a minor role, which will prepare students to accrue the experience required for a position as a computer engineer, computer network architect, computer engineer, etc. Although your associate degree won't give you specialization within the field if you already know your preferred concentration you can take courses that will help you in your specialty. For example, if you plan to work with software developers you can take extra programming courses as your electives and get a head start on your online bachelor's degree requirements for that field.

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An online bachelor's will reflect your area of specialization. For example, if you plan to design microprocessors your coursework will reflect that field. Network architecture, computer architecture, interface systems, microcontrollers, and circuitry design are all areas of specialty you can pursue in your bachelor's degree program. In mathematics, you'll study advanced statistics and analysis courses as well as algebra, calculus, and differential equations, and in the sciences, you'll learn physics. Your English coursework will concentrate on communication and report writing as well as public speaking.

When you're ready to earn your online Master's degree you'll choose a concentration that reflects your chosen occupation. While each school will offer different concentrations, here are some examples of subjects you might study include:

  • Hardware Integration
  • Electrical Design
  • Product Development
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Architecture/Computer System Architecture
  • Machine Learning
  • Robotics
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Data Structures
  • Computer Networking
  • Object Oriented Programming
  • Operating Systems

Sample Fields of Study:

  • Product Development
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Robotics

Online Associate's Degree

Example Coursework for the online Associate degree in Computer Engineering:

  • Logic and Design
  • Intro to Programming
  • Digital Systems
Learn More About an Online Associate in Computer Engineering

Online Bachelor’s Degree

Example coursework for an online bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering:

  • Engineering Probability & Statistics, I
  • Thermodynamics, I
  • Operating Systems
Learn More About an Online Bachelor's in Computer Engineering

Online Master’s Degree

Example coursework for the online Master’s degree in Computer Engineering:

  • Microprocessor Based System Design
  • Engineering Economy
  • Ethics and Computers
Learn More About an Online Master's in Computer Engineering

Cost Range for Each Degree

The total cost of your online degree will depend on many factors. Some states have lower education costs; public schools are more affordable than private. The following chart shows the national range of cost for each degree:

Degree Associate’s Degree Range Cost Bachelor’s Degree Range Cost Master’s Degree Range Cost
Cost $7140- $29,174 $14,280 - $58,348 $30,000 - $120,000

Potential Careers & Salaries for Engineering Grads

Occupations

  • Computer Systems Engineer
    These engineers are responsible for maintaining and updating the network for a company. Sometimes, with start-ups specifically, they even develop the network from the ground up, choosing hardware and software to create the system the company needs.
  • Hardware Engineer
    Some hardware engineers focus on choosing the correct hardware to work with a company’s current network architecture. Others are more proactive; planning, creating, implementing, and testing hardware solutions for specific problems or even for widespread distribution.
  • Computer Software Engineer, Systems Software
    Systems software refers to any program that includes complex software infrastructure that supports high-level processing tasks. These are what software engineers create, debug, and maintain for companies.
  • Network Architect
    These computer engineering specialists are responsible for networks on which company data is shared across departments and whole offices. IT workers maintain security for the network, keeping proprietary and personal information secure and restricting permissions within the network to those who require access. The architects of networks are those who build the network from the ground up, but they may stay on and assist with maintenance as well.
  • Electronics Engineer
    These engineers design and test all kinds of electronic devices; from a toaster to the devices that run the mars landers. They work from blueprints to create a device meant for a specific purpose. They may also create the blueprints if they are working alone rather than with a team.

Computer Engineering Median Salaries by Occupation

Annual Median Salary by Occupation

Occupation Entry Level Salary Range Mid-Career Salary Range Late Career Salary Range
Computer Systems Engineer $72,500 $88,300 $120,300
Hardware Engineer $73,100 $91,900 $109,000
Computer Software Engineer $72,500 $92,300 -
Network Architect $82,500 $109,100 $132,300
Electronics Engineer $67,800 $84,100 $109,100

Important Questions to Ask (FAQ)

How long does it take to earn a bachelor’s degree?

An online bachelor's degree is usually earned through a four-year program, so if you take a full load of classes it will take you four years to complete. If you already have your associate degree, it will take two more years of full-time school. Of course, if you take less than a full class load it will take longer and if you take summer courses or extra classes it may take less time. Taking your classes online can allow you to finish your degree more quickly if you stick to a constant schedule. However, most people who are taking courses online, do so for the flexibility. So, if you have other commitments, you will probably take longer to complete your degree than four years.

How much does a computer engineering bachelor’s degree cost?

The total cost of online computer engineering degrees depends on where you live, what school you choose, and whether you qualify for any financial aid. According to the U.S. Department of Education the total cost for an in-person or online computer engineering degree is between $22,000 and $50,000; some or all of the cost may be offset by grants, scholarships, or employer educational funds.

Does the school have the major(s) you’re considering?

While this may seem like a moot point, the major you wish to take may be camouflaged within a degree that has a different name. For example, a Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or computer engineering may offer different concentrations that include the major you wish to pursue. Look for the specific curriculum in each program to determine whether it offers the major you want. If you have trouble determining this, make sure to call the department in the school you are considering and ask.

How many students graduate “on time,” in four years?

Some schools focus more on enrollment than graduation, so look for the statistics on four-year students. This metric is called “Graduation Rate” and can be found on the College Scorecard website created by the US Department of Education. This will give you an idea of how much support you can expect from the school if you have problems with one or more classes. A good school will have an excellent graduation rate because they offer tutoring, counseling, and similar services designed to help every student succeed.

What kind of accreditation does the program hold? How is it regarded in the field?

Accreditation is important because it shows the school has met the standard expectations. Your future employers will look for accreditation to determine the quality of your online degree, and student aid is usually tied to accreditation. Regional accrediting is the norm for most schools; for computer hardware engineering you should choose a school that is also accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), as that is the most commonly accepted accrediting agency in the country.

Software, Technology & Skills Needed

As a field on the cutting edge of technology, your online computer engineering degree will rely heavily on your background and continued learning in the field. You'll take extensive courses in programming as well as operating systems and networks. You'll learn to use programs specific to statistics, design, and circuitry as well as the software designed for data structures and system designs. As time goes on, and the field continues to expand, you’ll learn new standards and techniques on the job.

Scholarships Available

Earning your online degree may sound like an expensive endeavor but there are several ways you can lower the costs. Your first step should be to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), even if you don't think you qualify for federal aid. Many schools, scholarships, and grants use the FAFSA to verify your personal financial information, so you will be able to share the form directly when you apply for scholarships and grants.

Most schools offer scholarships that are specific to the institution; states and local corporations do the same. Make sure you do a personal search for awards in your region for the best chance of getting help.

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Note that many scholarships require essays or other criteria that may take time to complete, so set aside some time each week just for finding and applying to scholarships and grants. Here are a few to give you an idea of what you might qualify for:

  • The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation
    Amount: $7,500
    Deadline: Last Friday in January (Nomination Deadline)

    This scholarship awards $7,500 for both your junior and senior years to cover tuition, books, fees, and room and board. If you're already a junior, you can apply for your senior year only.

  • Richard E. Merwin Scholarship
    Amount: $1,000 and up
    Deadline: April 30, September 30

    the IEEE Computer Society offers this scholarship in the amount of $1,000 or more to student volunteer leaders in each national region. Students must be a member of the organization and serve as student ambassador during the year they receive the scholarship; over a dozen scholarships are awarded.

  • NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Program (S-STEM)
    Amount: $10,000 annually
    Deadline: Last Thursday in March

    The National Science Foundation awards scholarships in the amount of $10,000 per year, renewable for up to four years. Students must show financial need and be academically talented in order to qualify for this award. This scholarship is awarded directly to the school and disbursed by them to the student.

  • Women Techmakers Scholars Program
    Amount: $10,000
    Deadline: December 6

    Formerly the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship, the Women Techmakers Scholarship Program awards $10,000 to women undergrads enrolled in a computer science program. Applicants must show strong leadership and academic qualities and be enrolled in an accredited college or university.

Professional Organizations

  • CRA
  • ACM
  • AAAI
  • IEEE
  • AWC
CRA_logo

CRA

Computing Research Association

the CRA is comprised of over 200 organizations dedicated to computing research. By uniting academic, government, and industry leaders CRA advances the computing fields.

ACM-logo

ACM

Association for Computing Machinery

the ACM is a network of over 100,000 professionals and students in the computing fields. Networking, a career and job center, learning center, and continuing education are only a few of the many membership benefits.

AAAI_logo

AAAI

Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence

if AI is your dream field this is a must-join organization. The AAAI is devoted to advancing intelligent behavior in technology and your membership will give you access to conferences, workshops, books, magazines, and technical reports, and an online resource library as well as several grants and scholarships.

IEEE-logo

IEEE

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society

the IEEE-CS is the world's leading organization for technology and computer science. You can enjoy conferences, webinars, a curated digest, career opportunities, and professional advancement for all areas of computer professions.

AWC_logo

AWC

Association for Women in Computing

the AWC addresses computer career aspects that are unique to women as they enter the field of computer science. Career building, networking, education, and mentoring are just a few of the perks of membership in the AWC.

Choosing an Accredited College

As you narrow your school choices your first step should be to verify that each school on your short list is accredited. Regional accreditation shows the school has met financial and academic standards on a regular basis and is typically a requirement for federal aid, scholarships, grants, and employer college programs.

In addition to regional accreditation, your school of choice should be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), as this organization sets the standards for the industry. ABET is recognized worldwide as the organization that oversees individual programs rather than colleges, so you know an ABET-approved program will be respected by your future employers as well as your peers.

ABET programs graduate over 85,000 students each year from almost 800 different colleges in over 30 countries. If your school of choice doesn't offer ABET-approved programs you should cross the college off your list of options.

Online vs On-Campus vs Hybrid

Your next step should be to decide whether you want to attend school online, at a traditional campus, or by a hybrid mix of the two. Each type of education has its pros and cons, so you'll have to decide what works best with your own personal situation.

Online school is convenient because you're not committed to a tight schedule. You don't have travel time to contend with, and you can complete your work anywhere there is an internet connection. On the other hand, you'll need to have self-discipline to complete your work in a timely manner. You won't have one-on-one learning with your instructors or interaction with other students and you won't have access to school perks such as the library and labs.

On-campus attendance is the opposite: you'll have a face-to-face traditional experience and can meet your classmates for study groups, and you'll also have access to the library, labs, and on-campus workshops and seminars. On the con side you'll be committed to a tight schedule and will have to add commute times to your day, as well as the expense of travelling to your classes. If you're working a full-time job it may be hard to carry a class load and attend your classes regularly.

Find Your Online Computer Engineering Program

A hybrid solution works best for many people as you can enjoy the best of both types of education. You can take some classes online if they interfere with your daily schedule, and if you find a subject more challenging you can attend on-campus and take advantage of the extra interaction it provides. On the other hand, you're restricted to schools within driving distance of your home, so this option may not be viable in your personal situation.

You best bet is to take an honest evaluation of your personal, home, and work situation and decide the best type of education for your own lifestyle before you commit to a specific type of schooling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What marketable skills will I gain from this degree?

Degrees in computer science create professionals with skills in networking, programming and coding, and more. However, a focused degree like those in computer engineering should provide you with even more focused and marketable skills when you graduate. Some of those you should expect to gain are skills with operating systems, debugging, digital design and signal processing, complexity/performance tradeoffs, the ability to work well with a team and/or on multiple projects at once, to be able to communicate the needs and requirements of a project with laymen and professionals alike, and more.

Will a computer engineering degree always be relevant?z

While no one can claim to know everything that will happen in the future, the current outlook for those who gain skills in computer engineering is bright. After all, more and more companies and products are incorporating computer engineering into their offerings. Fridges that connect to the internet and tell you when you’re out of milk are neat, but that wouldn’t work without the computer inside the fridge interacting with the product correctly. Many of these Internet of Things products are using the same processes computers use to interact with both their own components and an external UI. With the trend for interactable products still on its way up, you’re likely to find plenty of need for your skills in the future.

Does the College Have Post-Graduate Job Placement Help & Assistance?

Your degree won't be worth much if you can't find employment after you graduate. Look closely at each school's website and find out what post-graduate job placement assistance they offer. Look for statistics on graduate employment to verify a high percentage of graduates are successful after they finish school. If you can't easily find the information it may be a red flag that the school is more interested in enrolling new students than seeing them succeed, so don't hesitate to contact the admissions office and ask for the information. If it's not readily available, you might want to cross that school off your list of options.

A school that is vested in their students' success will use that information as a selling point, so look for partnerships with area corporations and testimonials from former students. You can also look for alumni groups and online student forums and social media pages to get a feel for the employment rates after graduation.

Why You Need to Consider the Overall National Rankings of the College and the Effects on Your Career or Salary

The overall national rankings of each college is another area that has pros and cons. While a school with a highly regarded computer science program will be an asset to your resume, it may not have a long-term effect on your career and salary. A smaller college that offers a program with ABET accreditation may give you the same career results as a school with a high national ranking if you combine your education with excellent experience. Your best bet it to compare individual ABET-approved programs, see what internship opportunities are offered at each school, and check with peers or mentors within your field of choice to verify the school you're considering has a program that is respected in the field of computer software or hardware engineers.

Remember, by taking some extra time to go over details before you enroll, you can save time in the long run. By narrowing your career field, vetting your school of choice, and determining the best program for your interests and aptitudes, you can plan your career with confidence and pave your path for future success.

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