Academic Advising
in the College of Arts & Science
What Can I Do With a Major in Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering is an exciting discipline that blends topics from computer science (such as software development) and electrical engineering (such as digital hardware) to create digital systems that benefit society. For example, computer engineers design and develop products that range from home appliances and computers to industrial robots, and from cars to airplanes and processes that include simple algorithm development to processing of images containing massive information. Computer engineers have influence in fields such as computers, computer systems, computing, energy, information technology, manufacturing, micro-electro-mechanical systems, nanotechnology, power generation, and transportation. They also hold influential positions in a variety of research laboratories.
The program has solid foundation of mathematics and science, computer programming, digital circuit design, engineering design, communication skills, and Miami's traditional liberal arts education. In addition you can take electives from other areas of engineering, computer science, physics, and mathematics to pursue your personal interests.
Interests
The Computer Engineering program is an excellent major for students who are interested in learning about both the software and hardware of computers. It is a great major for students with a strong interest in mathematics, science, or engineering, as well as those with an interest in computers and electronics.
Competencies
- Problem Solving
- Problem formulation
Structuring an unstructured problem
Placing problems in context
Analyzing need
Analyzing risks and benefits
Precise analytical reasoning
Algorithm development
Using math to solve problems - Communication
- Informing and explaining clearly both orally and in writing
Explaining technical concepts in easy to understand language both orally and in writing
Communicating technical details precisely and unambiguously
Influencing and persuading
Using computerized tools for communication - Interpersonal Skills
- Working as part of a team
Developing common goals
Project management - Ability to Think Critically
- Thinking logically
Adapting ideas
Seeing connections
Weighing values
Learning of new technologies
Learning new areas to which computers and electronics are applied - Technical
- Ability to master concepts of computer science, electrical engineering and mathematics
Using electrical and optical equipment and computer hardware
Designing systems
Opportunities - Careers
- Computer engineer
Programmer/analyst
Software engineer
Embedded systems engineer
Network engineer
Robotic and manufacturing systems engineer
Hardware engineer
Consultant
Systems engineer
Opportunities - Graduate/Professional School
Students may continue their education by receiving advanced degrees in: computer engineering, computer science, computer information systems, management science, or business.
Opportunities - Experiential
Students have the opportunity to gain experience in their profession by choosing the co-op program in which students alternate semesters of study with semesters of work in industry, through summer internships, or through working and consulting in the computer labs in the university. Students also have the opportunity to become involved in the student organizations of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the Association of Women in Computing (AWC), IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers), SWE (Society of Women Engineers), Black Data Processing Association (BDPA), and Omega Rho (Operations Research Honorary), or the National Technical Association (NTA). In addition students who excel in the program have an opportunity as seniors to work on research projects with a faculty member in the departmental or university honors program.
Sources of Additional Information
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department (260 Engineering Bldg., 529-0741)
- * Curriculum Requirements
* Career Opportunities - Student Counseling Service (195 Health Services Building, 529-4634)
- * Career Counseling
* Career Assistance Center
* Computerized Career Development Program
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook - School of Engineering & Applied Science (106 Benton Hall, 529-0700)
- * Miami Plan Requirements
- * Course Selection
* Career Decision Making - Office of Career Services (241 Hoyt Hall, 529-3831)
- * Career Resource Center
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook
Developed by the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the academic departmental offices with adaptations from Liberal Arts and Sciences - Skills - Career Opportunities, Career Planning and Placement Office, University of Michigan.