Computer Engineering

Program Overview
The Computer Engineering (CE) Program at DigiPen educates students to understand both sides of the hardware-software interface, from designing circuits to creating operating systems. Multidisciplinary in scope, the CE curriculum integrates the fields of electrical engineering and computer science. This program will uniquely prepare CE graduates to design and develop embedded, digital, and computer systems. Graduates with a degree in CE will be highly skilled and ideally suited for 21st century industries, including the games industry.

DigiPen concentrates on the practical application of theoretical learning through a variety of semester and year-long projects. Students will have increasing levels of creative control in their projects and receive feedback from expert instructors. The CE curriculum and student projects will focus on embedded systems, a term that refers to any device that uses a microprocessor or microcontroller for a specific purpose. Embedded systems appear in a wide array of household, industrial, and military applications, including portable and console game systems, robots, game peripherals, electronic toys, digital cameras, audio/video component systems, and even aircraft flight systems.

Applications of computer engineering include:

There is real potential for innovation in the field of computer engineering and a growing demand for skilled graduates. For example, limitations of hardware constrain game software development. CE graduates possess the proficiency to design and implement new hardware interfaces that will expand the bounds of video games and other interactive media.

Students who successfully complete the CE curriculum acquire the following:

• A broad foundation in mathematics, physics, and computer science that allows students to remain current in the profession as tools and techniques evolve.
• A foundation in electrical engineering that includes the principles of circuits with an emphasis on digital electronics, microprocessors, microcontrollers, and embedded systems.
• The ability to work in small teams to design, build, and test prototype systems typical of those current in the industry.
• Strong foundational skills in system design, software engineering, coding, and system integration.
• Extensive skills in applied technology using industry-standard hardware and software.
• Professional work habits and attitude, including the ability to maintain a production schedule and respond to professional criticism.
• Social perspective and civic accountability relative to the roles that technology plays in our society.

Math Minor
Students who fulfill a total of 27 credits in MAT courses numbered above (and not equal to) 100 or PHY 300, with a C- or better, will earn a math minor. Of those 27 credits, 6 credits must be completed from MAT courses numbered 300 or higher, and at least 9 credits must be taken at DigiPen.

General Education Requirement
The B.S. in Computer Engineering requires a minimum of 30 semester hours in general education courses. Beyond the required English courses (e.g. ENG 110 and ENG 150), CE students may take any of the following courses to meet the minimum requirement of five additional English credits: ENG 115, ENG 240, ENG 241, ENG 320, ENG 400, and ENG 450.

Length
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering consists of 154 credits offered over 8 semesters of 15 weeks each. This program usually takes four academic years to complete.

Recommended Course Sequence
Listed on the following page is the recommended course sequence for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. Please note the following:

NOTICE:
* Students must achieve a grade of C- or higher in the Core courses to earn credit toward this degree.
** Students must receive special permission from the Dean to take more than 18 credits first semester and 22 credits second semester.

See Also Admissions Requirements