Top 10 software development stories of 2023

One of the best advantages of working as a computer engineer is the variety of job opportunities accessible to you. Computer engineers have a strong background in computer programming and may work on both software and hardware. It can point professionals in a new direction of study in the field, leading to a discovery or advancement. It also can be important to anyone considering becoming licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE), although licensing requirements vary from state to state.

The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. (ABET) is the
central accrediting body for computer engineering programs. Students should
ensure their selected program is accredited by ABET to ensure quality. ABET
reviews multiple criteria of computer engineering programs, including
curriculum, student performance, student outcomes, faculty, facilities, and
resources. It
demonstrates that the program adheres to nationally recognized standards and
produces graduates that are prepared for career success. Select a state to see more on employment and job growth for computer
engineers. Take the career quiz to determine if the desktop engineer career path is a good fit for you.

Becoming a computer engineer FAQs

Some states are better than others when it comes to starting a career as a desktop engineer. The best states for people in this position are California, Washington, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The role of Desktop Engineer can be considered an entry-level position, although some employers may want candidates with a couple years of experience under their belt.

Students considering the field may want to look for programs accredited through the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). This accreditation assures students that the programs offer quality education and meet other requirements for graduate-level admissions, credentialing, or being hired by some employers. ABET-accredited programs include online and on-campus offerings at the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels.

Job Outlook – Software Developers

College career centers and on-campus recruitment campaigns may also provide valuable job search resources. The steps to become a computer engineer start with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, computer science, or electrical engineering. Candidates with graduate degrees can pursue higher-paying help desk engineer positions with greater responsibilities. Though some computer engineers freelance, most hold regular jobs with technology companies. Often working in offices or research and development laboratories, these professionals often lead teams of quality assurance analysts and testers.

• Members can advertise and collaborate on projects or pursue other opportunities through its extensive network and job board.
• These professionals design, develop, and maintain computer systems and information technologies.
• Many positions require similar knowledge and skills, while others allow learners to embrace their personal interests and demonstrate their expert abilities.
• According to CareerOneStop (2022), 26 percent of people in computer hardware engineering careers had a master’s degree.

According to the National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies, computer
engineers should have a blend of soft, employability skills in addition to
technical knowledge. These soft skills include critical thinking,
communication, and project and time management. Computer engineers should be
detail-oriented, analytical, excellent problems solvers, and able to identify,
analyze and craft solutions to complex problems. As a cross-functional
position, computer engineering requires individuals be strong communicators,
and able to work closely with other colleagues and clients.

What Does a Career in Computer Engineering Look Like?

Introduces students to the fundamentals of data communications, networking, and the Internet. The IEEE is one of the largest organizations of Engineers, and has several Desktop Engineers amongst its membership. The organization’s mission revolves around technology’s growing role in our society. Finding an accredited computer engineering program marks the first step in your career journey.

You must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree before continuing your education with a two-year master’s degree to further your job. Future and existing computer engineers have the most to build a resume, including professional experience, degree, and relevant certifications. Practical experience may help students stand out from other candidates when they enter this field. An internship may be necessary as a part of a computer engineering bachelor’s degree program. This accreditation ensures that learners receive a high-quality education, and the courses satisfy additional requirements for Bachelor’s degree admissions, certification, or employment by various employers.

Should I Become a Computer Engineer?

For example, you can specialize in the Internet of Things (IoT) by earning a certificate in IoT Devices from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the largest employers of computer hardware engineers in 2019 were computer systems design firms. Computer engineers also find employment in electrical component manufacturing, computer equipment manufacturing, and research and development. Computer engineers accomplish these goals by uniting — in research and practice — computer science, electrical engineering, and information technology.

• When writing a CV, emphasize qualities and skills relevant to certain professions.
• The prerequisites for admission to computer engineering degrees differ in each school; however, there are a few similarities.
• Some organizations include the Association for Information Science and Technology and the Association for Computing Machinery.

Computer engineers typically work more closely with hardware and computer systems as a whole. Computer engineering students gain programming skills to assist with software design but generally focus their studies on disciplines like electrical engineering and physics. Computer engineering professionals need a strong background in both computer science and electrical engineering. Earning a master’s degree in computer engineering can help professionals pursue higher-paying jobs with greater advancement potential.