About Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering combines Computer Science and Electrical Engineering principles to develop the hardware and firmware that are used in electronics, medical devices, electric cars and so much more. Computer engineers develop, prototype and test hardware like circuits, conductors, microchips and processors, which are then used in smartphones, computers, IoT gadgets and more. They’ll also develop firmware to work alongside these pieces of hardware, creating powerful devices.

　　If you love working with your hands as well as your brain, Computer Engineering could be a rewarding pathway to consider.

　　

Is Computer Engineering right for me?

To thrive in Computer Engineering, it’s great to have a curious and investigative personality. You’ll regularly face technical challenges and will need to find practical solutions to these problems. Coding, mathematics and programming skills will all come in handy as well. You’ll also have to be okay with completing some tedious documentation from time to time!

　　In the workforce, computer engineers will typically work in corporate or start-up environments, working a regular full-time schedule between 9am-5pm. Some computer engineers are able to work remotely or according to a flexible schedule, meaning it can be a fantastic role for introverts and independent workers.

　　

Computer Engineering study options and costs

　　68% of computer engineers have a Bachelor’s degree, meaning it is often the benchmark to enter the industry. Some course options include Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Programming or Electrical Engineering. Interestingly, average Computer Engineering salaries increase in relation to the level of education obtained - people with a Bachelor’s earn an average of USD$89,000 while those with a Master’s earn USD$102,000!

　　In the US, a Computer Engineering degree can cost around USD$30,000 a year, while in Australia a degree can set you back AUD$35,000-45,000 a year.

　　In addition to a degree, it can also be smart to obtain some relevant certifications like CCNP Wireless, ARM Accredited Engineer or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert.

　　

Future outlook

Computer Engineering is set to see an average job growth of 5% by 2026. Luckily, those with Computer Engineering skills can easily transition into a range of other in-demand roles like computer programming, web development and database administration. If you instead want to niche down into the area of your study, consider computer software development - a career path that’s set to see demand increase by 24% by 2026!

　　

Career pathways for Computer Engineering graduates

　　

Computer Engineer

　　As a computer engineer, you can choose to specialise in hardware or software. If working with hardware, you’ll work on new hardware systems and also test existing hardware. If you opt for software engineering instead, you’ll utilise your knowledge of programming languages to develop apps, operating systems, games and more. It’s also possible to work with both hardware and software if you’d love to combine your creative and technical sides.

　　

Computer Programmer

　　Computer programmers write and test code that run computer programs and applications. As a computer programmer, you’ll often work alongside software developers and engineers. You will also be responsible for testing and updating existing programs to ensure optimal performance.

　　

Computer Systems Analyst

　　Computer systems analysts are responsible for maintaining and improving computer systems as well as propose new systems for organisations to adopt. You’ll also be in charge of writing and publishing technical reports and training end-users appropriately.

　　

Computer Network Architect

　　Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, which can include intranets, local area networks and wide area networks. As well as creating plans and layouts for new data communication networks, you’ll also upgrade existing software to ensure things keep running smoothly.

　　

Web Developer

　　Web developers build and maintain websites, managing their overall look and feel as well as improve their performance and capacity. You can choose to work as a front end or back end developer, or as an all-rounder, which would make you a full stack developer.