Computer Engineering
From consumer products to computer hardware, computer engineers make it work.
At York College of Pennsylvania, our Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Engineering degree program focuses on embedded systems and draws upon mathematics, science, and computer science to design computer or microprocessor-controlled devices and systems.
From first-year design projects to two co-op semesters working for employers across Pennsylvania and the country, York College’s Computer Engineering majors gain concrete technical skills in both software and hardware design and analysis. These help prepare for entry-level engineer positions, graduate studies, or further certifications.
With small class sizes and options to specialize in computer engineering subfields through concentrations and electives, students in our ABET-accredited Computer Engineering program learn and practice the art of engineering design through practical hands-on experience.
About the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering Degree Requirements
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program integrates electrical engineering and computer science courses, focusing on microcontrollers and controlled electronic devices. Core computer engineering requirements include embedded system design, software engineering design, and operating systems.
General education classes, hands-on lab work, and a two-semester capstone design project complement traditional coursework, while cooperative work experiences (co-ops) provide invaluable industry exposure.
Computer Engineering courses you may take include:
- ECE 260: Fundamental of Computer Engineering
- ECE 380: Communication Networks
- ECE 370: Microprocessor System Design
- ECE 420: Embedded Systems
- CS 420: Operating Systems
Admissions and Aid
Start on the path to some of the more rewarding career opportunities today and review undergraduate admission requirements. Our rolling admissions policy means you can apply at any time.
Our rich academic and campus experiences cost much less than what students pay at other private colleges. Learn more about tuition costs and financial aid opportunities at York College.
Earn a B.S. in Computer Engineering at York College of Pennsylvania
Our Computer Engineering majors learn in small class sizes paired with co-op semesters in computer engineering specialties. Take the next step to high-demand computer engineering careers today.
Request more information to learn more. Or, begin an application today.
Career Opportunities with a B.S. in Computer Engineering
Computer engineering is a dynamic and continually evolving field, and a bachelor’s degree opens the door to a range of career opportunities. Computer Engineering majors at York College become well-prepared to enter a variety of sectors, including digital electronics, software engineering, communication systems, robotics, and embedded systems, among others. The technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and practical co-op experience help graduates to excel in roles such as:
- Automated systems
- Computer systems engineering
- Electrical/electronic design work
- Embedded systems
- Engineering consulting
- Industrial and manufacturing engineering support
- Robotics
- Software Engineering
Students can specialize through elective courses in areas like cybersecurity, computer networks, and graphics programming.
Salary Outcomes for Computer Engineering Majors
Computer engineering is a highly advanced field that involves researching, developing, and testing computer hardware and systems. Even at the entry level, employees with bachelor’s degrees earn competitive salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer hardware engineers are projected to experience faster-than-average growth than all occupations. Graduates are equipped for roles with the following average annual salaries as reported by the BLS:
- Network and computer systems administrators—$95,360/year
- Computer programmers—$99,700/year
- Software developers, analysts, and testers—$130,160/year
- Computer hardware engineers—$138,080/year
Co-Op Work Experience
Kinsley School of Engineering, Sciences, and Technology places immense value on our undergraduate engineering cooperative education (co-op) program, where students complete two working semesters, seamlessly integrated into the four year engineering curriculum.
This essential component ensures students are ready for more advanced academic challenges and gain firsthand insight into their future careers. Through these real-world experiences, students can intimately understand the day-to-day realities of the computer engineering field and experience benefits, including:
- Financial Support: Engaging in paid professional roles during co-op semesters helps offset college expenses.
- Professional Skill Exposure: Early interaction with practicing engineers offers opportunities to sharpen their technical and interpersonal skills.
- Competitive Advantage: Applying coursework in practical experiences and gaining professional connections create sought-after graduates.
The carefully structured co-op program equips our Computer Engineering majors with the tools, knowledge, and experience to excel in both their academic and professional journeys.
Capstone Design
The Computer Engineering major program provides opportunities to work hands-on in engineering laboratories nearly every day, culminating in ECE 400/402: Capstone Design I/III. In this senior-level course sequence, students engage in a real-world multidisciplinary design and build experience, operating on a team to deliver a prototype of the design effort and present a report on its development and results.
Research Alongside Expert Faculty
In coursework, independent study opportunities, and the supervised Design Capstone, Computer Engineering majors interact with York College faculty who are leading-edge researchers with years of industry experience.
Students may partner with faculty members on research projects that often lead to publications at national and international conferences. Former students helped design and build swarm robotics, a radio telescope, an automated greenhouse, drones, medical devices, and more.
Top Facilities and Technologies
The Kinsley Engineering Center houses collaborative engineering labs, computer labs, maker spaces, and places to connect with other engineering students. With the understanding that engineering innovation arises when different disciplines interact, engineering majors at York College enjoy seven different laboratories related to various subject areas such as robotics, power systems, communications and signal processing, and several others.
Explore the Kinsley Engineering Center , dedicated computer science laboratories and the various engineering labs.
Student Involvement and Clubs
Our on-campus chapter of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) provides student members with a variety of activities and social events, including attending regional meetings.
Enjoy ample opportunities to join, not just professional societies, but student-led clubs. Whether it’s getting involved in student government opportunities, multicultural organizations, or the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Club, York College has a wide variety of clubs and organizations to connect with other students.
Skills for In-Demand Computer Engineering Careers
Graduates of York College’s Computer Engineering major program are proficient in computer engineering principles and skilled in problem-solving, innovation, and communication, preparing them for successful careers in computer engineering and related fields. Graduates enter careers or advanced study equipped with in-depth knowledge of:
- Digital circuit design and analysis
- Microprocessor and embedded systems development
- Software engineering methodologies and practices
- Application of computer engineering principles
- Engineering design and problem-solving techniques
- Integration of hardware and software systems
Additionally, graduates of the B.S. in Computer Engineering hold:
- Comprehensive grasp of computer engineering principles and applications
- Analytical ability to solve complex engineering problems within specifications
- Practical application of theory through experimentation and modern tools
- Interdisciplinary knowledge spanning computer science, physics, and mathematics
- Industry experience through co-op positions
- Innovative problem-solving and creative engineering solutions
- Technical communication skills and multidisciplinary teamwork abilities
Minors and Related Degrees
York College’s interdisciplinary offerings can complement the B.S. in Computer Engineering and tailor students’ elective study and professional experiences to emerging career fields and areas related to engineering. Popular choices include:
The B.S. in Computer Engineering degree program at York College is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Computer Engineering Courses
Computer Engineering major requirements include core major courses, Gen Next general education, and electives.
| Course Name | Course Code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineering | CS320 | 3 Credits |
| Fundamentals of Computer Engineering | ECE 260 | 4 Credits |
| Microprocessor System Design | ECE370 | 3 Credits |
| Communication Networks | ECE 380 | 3 Credits |
| Embedded System Design | ECE 420 | 3 Credits |
| Operating Systems | CS 420 | 3 Credits |
Careers
Graduates of the B.S. in Computer Engineering excel in roles across computer engineering and computer science.
Embedded System Design
Software Engineering
Firmware Development
Computer Architecture
Robotics and Consumer Electronics
Automated Manufacturing Systems
Build your dream career, one day at a time.
This is day one. From your first semester on campus through graduation day, York College offers expert advice, professional development opportunities, and personalized support to help you navigate the choices that influence your future.
Explore resources for a successful college experience:
Frequently Asked Questions
The choice depends on your interests and goals. Computer engineering focuses on designing and building hardware components and integrating them with software, while computer science emphasizes programming, software development, and algorithms. Computer engineering is ideal if you prefer working with physical devices and hardware. Training in computer engineering may also be seen as more flexible, opening career opportunities in both computer science and engineering.
A computer engineer designs, tests, and improves computer systems and components. They build embedded systems, troubleshoot hardware issues, and collaborate with software developers to ensure seamless integration of hardware and software. Computer engineers also engage in hands-on work, including building and testing prototypes and conducting research and development for new technologies.
Yes, computer engineering majors can secure jobs in big tech companies. Their expertise in hardware and embedded systems makes them valuable candidates in industries that require specialized hardware design and development, such as consumer electronics, telecommunications, and automotive technology. For example, companies like Uber, Apple, Tesla, IBM, and Microsoft are likely to employ computer engineering majors.
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Computer Engineering in Action
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