Program Director

Dr. Russ Meier, FIEEE
Office: L-351
Phone: (414) 277-2243
Email: meier@msoe.edu

Overview

Engineers apply mathematics, science, and ethics to build things. Computer engineers are experts in the electronic design of computer hardware, the design of computer software, and the embedding of computers within other smart systems. Deep training in calculus-based mathematics and physics provides the foundational knowledge computer engineers use to design electric circuitry, analyze computer systems, and implement control algorithms in all kinds of products. To achieve technical depth in hardware design, MSOE computer engineers study digital logic, computer architecture, electric circuits, electronics, signal theory, digital signal processing, and computer networking. To achieve technical depth in software design, MSOE computer engineers study software development and data structures in the Java programming language and study the C programming language for systems programming and embedded systems control. This balanced training in the design of computer hardware and software makes computer engineering a perfect career choice for students interested in computing and the manipulation of electricity to accomplish it.

Computer engineers are employed at a wide variety of companies. Most modern products have smart behaviors controlled by embedded computers. Thus, computer engineers apply their skills in many different companies such as those within the automotive, avionics, building control systems, home appliances, agriculture, construction equipment, telecommunications, entertainment, and gaming industries. And, of course, computer engineers can also work within the traditional computing industry that builds desktop, laptop, and mobile computers. No matter where they are employed, computer engineers work to improve the world bit-by-bit by putting computers in stuff!

Study Abroad

Computer engineering students can study abroad after completing the first five semesters of computer engineering coursework. Students typically spend the next spring semester abroad and return to MSOE the following fall semester. Courses are taught in English, participation does not delay graduation, and the only additional cost is airfare.

• Students can study at the Czech Technical University (CTU) in Prague, one of Europe’s great historic and beautiful cities. Founded hundreds of years ago, CTU is the top technical university in the Czech Republic and a respected university in Central Europe
• Students can study at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. VUW is the top research institute of New Zealand, and Wellington is the country’s capital with no shortage of beautiful ocean views and cultural activities.

Program Educational Objectives

Within a few years of graduation, CE alumni will:

1. Have a record of successful delivery as an engineer in areas such as product development, patent applications, engineering management, technical sales, and test engineering
2. Provide both informal and formal leadership (e.g., lead specific team efforts or function as team leader, project manager, etc.)
3. Develop expert knowledge in at least one area that is seen as an asset by colleagues and management

Student Outcomes

Graduates of the computer engineering program will attain:

1. an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
2. an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
3. an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
4. an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
5. an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
6. an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
7. an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies

The Computer Engineering (BS) program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Computer Engineering.

View Annual Student Enrollment and Graduation Data