Degree Programs

FRESHMAN APPLICATIONS CLOSE MARCH 1

Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Computer Systems Engineering

The Computer Systems Engineering program is concerned with the analysis, design and evaluation of computer systems, both hardware and software. The program emphasizes computer organization and architecture, systems programming, operating systems and digital hardware design.

Computer engineers often find themselves focusing on problems or challenges that result in new "state of the art" products that integrate computer capabilities. They work on the design, planning, development, testing and even the supervision of manufacturing of computer hardware -- including everything from chips to device controllers. They also focus on computer networks for the transmission of data and multimedia. They work on the interface between different pieces of hardware and strive to provide new capabilities to existing and new systems or products.

The work of a computer engineer is grounded in the hardware -- from circuits to architecture -- but also focuses on operating systems and software. Computer engineers must understand logic design, microprocessor system design, computer architecture and computer interfacing, while continually focusing on system requirements and design.

Degree Program

Students are required to complete 120 credit hours to earn a B.S.E. in Computer Systems Engineering. In addition to general studies courses, students complete math, science, introduction to engineering, circuits and computer science foundation courses. Upper division courses include software engineering, computing ethics, data structures and algorithms, computer architecture, computer networks, digital hardware, embedded micro systems and operating systems. Students can also choose from a number of 400-level electives, including special topics courses. As a culminating experience in the program, students take a two semester sequence of Capstone courses, where they work on a real-world project provided by industry in a team setting. Students can choose to concentrate their studies in information assurance.

Students following the 2007-08 general catalog (and forward) are required to adhere to the eAdvisor (critical tracking) requirements. eAdvisor provides critical requirements and major maps which lay out a specific, clear and accurate track to timely completion of the degree.  The eAdvisor system monitors a student’s progress toward their degree and shows which requirements have been accomplished and which requirements or electives remain to earn a degree in computer science.

The critical requirements and major maps include courses that the faculty have identified as key predictors of success in the major, which are called “skill-set” courses. Critical requirements include minimum grades and milestones of performance to be accomplished within the first 2 years (four full-time semesters) of the degree program.

 

Questions & Answers

What skills do I need for success?

Those working in the computer systems engineering field must be analytical, detail-oriented and work well in teams.

The B.S.E. in Computer Systems Engineering prepares students for the challenges in the field by requiring courses in mathematics, sciences, embedded micro systems and software. Employers are seeking technically savvy students with the ability to work in across disciplines, work with diverse people and communicate well.

What kinds of jobs are available?

Computer engineers are employed in industry, government, education and consulting. They usually work in teams with other engineers and individuals from other functional areas. They may be working on a new design of an electronic component for an individual project, focused on the development of software specific to a new product or one being redesigned, or may work in sales or in supporting research activities. Computer engineers frequently work on new applications of computers, such as advances in digital television and photography, virtual meeting technology, intelligent highways and control systems and new technologies for cars, phones, security systems, telescopes, airplanes and space vehicles.

Some past job titles of alumni have been Hardware Design Engineer, Senior Embedded Software Engineer, Design Engineer, or Systems Engineer.

What are career prospects in the field?

Large and small companies, as well as local, national and global companies, seek students in the School of Computing and Informatics. See our industry partners for more information on companies that recruit SCI students.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer hardware engineers are expected to have 5 percent employment growth from 2006-2016.

How much can I earn in the field?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the computer hardware field has a median salary of $88,470 per year.

What will I learn in the B.S.E. in Computer Systems Engineering program?

Students working towards a bachelor’s degree in computer science and engineering will gain several valuable skills to use in their field. The aim of the educational experience is to assist students in designing a computing solution to meet desired needs within realistic constraints. Additionally, students will have a chance to analyze and solve computer systems problems. Eventually their academic and industry experience will intersect as they use modern engineering techniques, skills and tools necessary for computer systems engineering practice. The students will do more than just communicate effectively with a range of audiences. Their coursework will also challenge them to use the fundamentals of the discipline in both the classroom and industry.

To learn more review the B.S.E. in computer systems engineering major map, the course syllabi or view the full list of ABET degree outcomes.

Where can I learn more about the field of computing?

Bureau of Labor Statistics: Computing Careers

Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook

Sloan Career Center Cornerstone

Contact the SCI Advising Center by calling 480.965.3199 or request more information.