Are you curious about the driving forces behind machinery and infrastructure? Utilize a degree in computer engineering to learn about power generation, digital interfacing, and much more so that you can flourish in the engineering industry.
What type of engineering is right for you?
While both play a significant role in mathematical and creative problem-solving as well as communication and leadership skills, electrical engineers focus on power generation - such as electricity, mechanical engineers focus on - getting physical parts, motors, and components to behave or act in a desired manner, and computer science engineers focus on the programmable components that make the systems run.
At PLNU, our computer engineering program focuses on two goals:
Giving you experience in a collection of computer engineering tools such as programming, operating systems, networking and system security.
- Also giving you experience in with analog and digital electronics, computer interfacing, and even mobile robotics.
- Helping to prepare you for careers in fields like aerospace, computer chip design, satellite or cellular communications, cyber security, and many more.
Job outlook for computer engineering careers
Employment in careers related to a degree in computer engineering is projected to remain steady yet still competitive. For computer engineers, overall employment is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). However, for software developers (one of the careers pursued by graduates of the PLNU electrical engineering program), employment is projected to grow 22% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What can you do with an engineering degree with a computer engineering concentration?
Many PLNU graduates have gone on to work in careers in academia, aerospace, computer technology, research, satellite or cellular communications, semiconductors, and solar technology (just to name a few). All are equipped with thorough knowledge and tools for their roles within these industries.
Some of the positions PLNU graduates currently hold:
Electrical Engineer
2020 Median annual salary: $103,390
Electrical engineers create, develop, and test electrical equipment. These engineers work in a wide range of equipment and systems such as automobiles, aircraft, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, or power generation equipment.
- Necessary skills and attributes:
- Creativity to design new ways to use electrical power to develop or improve products
- Performing detailed calculations
- Directing the manufacture, installation, and testing of electrical equipment
- Investigating problems and recommending solutions
- Working with project managers on production efforts
Aerospace Engineer
2020 Median annual salary: $118,610
Aerospace engineers design primarily aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. In addition, they create and test prototypes to make sure that they function according to design. They often specialize in areas such as aerodynamic fluid flow; structural design; guidance, navigation, and control; instrumentation and communication; robotics; and propulsion and combustion.
Necessary skills and attributes:
- Leadership for the direction of design and manufacturing teams of aircraft and aerospace products
- Efficiency in analyzing numbers and costs for projects
- Attention to detail for evaluating designs and whether they meet engineering principles, customer requirements, and environmental regulations
Computer Hardware Engineer
2022 Median annual salary: $132,360
Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers. Many hardware engineers design devices used in manufactured products that incorporate processors and other computer components and that connect to the Internet. For example, many new cars, home appliances, and medical devices have Internet-ready computer systems built into them.
Necessary attributes and skills:
- Design new computer hardware, creating schematics of computer equipment to be built
- Test the computer hardware they design
- Analyze the test results and modify the design as needed
- Update existing computer equipment so that it will work with new software
- Oversee the manufacturing process for computer hardware
Let your ideas spark and make them a reality with a degree in computer science engineering
PLNU’s Engineering, B.S.E Computer Engineering Concentration will set you up for success in the wide-ranging opportunities available post-graduation. Whether you pursue aerospace, computer technology, chip design, research, or an intersection of these and more, you will be well prepared with creativity and skills fostered on PLNU’s campus.
Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.
