If you're interested in earning a degree from a top computer engineering school, please read on.  The Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering is offered by the University of the Pacific through the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECPE).  The Computer Engineering Program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.  Computer engineering is a broad field which encompasses all aspects of computers, including the design and application of both hardware and software.  Career opportunities in this field are diverse and are found in manufacturing, transportation, communication, research, education and management.

• What is Computer Engineering  Computer engineering is about designing computers and integrating them into devices which rely on computers.  This field is often described as a "bridge" between computer science and electrical engineering that specifically focuses on mapping computing-related ideas into working physical systems.  Computer engineers can choose to specialize on the hardware or the software side of the problem. Computer engineers design such products as:  1.  CPUs and motherboard chipsets;  2.  Video graphics processors and cards;  3.  Driver software for operating systems;  4.  Compression algorithms for data transmission;  5.  Computer networking hardware such as routers, switches, and network interface cards;  6.  Monitoring devices for medical systems
• Careers in Computer Engineeing  A career in computer engineering can lead to various settings in academia, research, industry, government, and private and business organizations.  Here are just a few career areas in computing:  1.  Computer Design and Engineeirng - this area would involve designing electronic components such as computer circuits and microchips;  2.  Computer Architecture - this area would involve designing the central processing unit, integrating it into a complete system including memory and input/output devices;  3.  Networks and Network Security - this area would involve implementing communication between computers using networks and ensuring security between and within computers using network;  4.  Software Applications - this area would involve designing computer programs for specific purposes - for example, medical monitoring software and inventory control software.

Computer Engineering Curriculum

The Computer Engineering curriculum combines the necessary elements of electrical engineering and computer science with a foundation of traditional engineering fundamentals.  Study in CPE can included topics such as:

• artificial intelligence
• computer graphics
• digital signal processing
• microcomputers
• robotics
• virtual reality

Graduates of this program have the knowledge essential for entry into this dynamic field of engineering or to continue their education through graduate studies.

Students work with their academic advisors to develop curriculum plans in accordance with prerequisite requirements and course schedules.  Students who successfully complete their coursework and complete 32 units of coop can graduate in four years. (Non U.S. citizens are exempt from the coop requirements.) Summer courses may be desirable or necessary to reduce the course-load during some Fall of Spring semesters.

Cooperative Education Component

Cooperative Education (Coop) is an integral part of the Pacific engineering program and all engineering students are required to have industrial experience before they graduate.  Our Coop Coordinator works with students to arrange relevant full-time, paid jobs with engineering employers.  Pacific's Coop Program offers paid internships with major firms such as:

• HP
• Cisco Systems
• Verizon Wireless
• Nvidia
• Lawrence Livermore National Labs

Computer Engineering Program Objectives and Student Outcomes