Computer Engineering Degrees

Overview

If you decide to pursue a Master of Science degree in computer engineering, you can expect to learn about the design and implementation of computers and its peripheral devices, the development of large computers systems, and the application of digital solutions to a variety of problems. You will also be taught computer languages, programming and software engineering, human-computer interaction, databases, compilers, and computer-aided design. The influence of technology on society is continuing to make computer engineering a rapidly growing field of study as compared to the other engineering disciplines. Students pursuing education in computer engineering may work in hardware, software, systems analyses, database administration, and computer science fields.

Benefits

Computer software engineering is an exciting and challenging field. Once you complete your computer engineering degree program, you may find employment as a systems engineer or project manager in the defense industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), highly favorable opportunities are expected for college graduates with at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or computer science and some practical work experience or internship. Computer systems software engineers made about $79,740 per year in 2004.

Software engineering is one of the fastest growing industries with a large number of job opportunities. It is expected to grow the fastest and provide more jobs over the 2006-16 decade. An education in computer engineering can help you in a challenging and well-paid career. Computer engineering technologists are equipped to create advanced electronics in many different areas including research, manufacturing, medical, communications, security, and consumer product markets ranging from iPods to cell phones. In fact, computer degree holders, especially those in computer engineering technology, are expected to see a dramatic increase in job prospects. Computer software engineers must continually strive to acquire new skills to adapt themselves to the rapid changes that occur in computer technology.

Costs

The amount that you will be investing for the computer science engineering degree would be around $32,300. This is exclusive of the other expenses like the books and the other resources. You will also have to invest more, if you decide to stay out of your house to pursue your studies.

Schools

There are a lot of colleges that offer technology-oriented degrees in computer engineering including a bachelor's in engineering in computers system engineering or an integrated bachelor's and master's degree program in computer systems engineering. Some of the top colleges like Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, and University of Houston offer this degree. All these colleges have qualified staffs and have a high overall performance rate. You can also opt for the degrees online through websites like DeVry University, AIU Online, and Virginia College Online.

Testing & Preparation

Various tests are conducted to assess the ability of the high school students to complete the degree. Some of the tests that are used to assess the students are Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), American College Test (ACT), and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). More than 70% of the incoming freshmen score 30-36 in ACT and more than 60% score 1400-1600 in SAT.

Financial Aid

Several different forms of financial aid are available to incoming graduate students like Teaching Assistantships, Research Assistantships, and Tuition and Fee Waivers. Some of the other grants and scholarships include the Gates Millennium Scholarship and Google Scholarships like AISES Google Scholarship and HCF Google Scholarship Program.