Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering is a major within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE). Computer engineering is the design and use of computing systems at all levels. This major may interest you if you enjoy understanding, designing, and working with computers. In this major, you will learn every part of a computer system from top to bottom. As a computer engineer, you will be well prepared to create the wide array of computing systems and devices that we all use and depend on every day.
Career options include computer system architecture, GPU architecture, hardware design, microprocessor design, programming, research, and software architecture.
Highlights
- Our computer engineering program is ranked #4 by U.S. News & World Report.
- 84% of students reported having an internship or co-op during their degree program.
- 96% of students reported securing their first choice destination upon graduation.
- The average starting salary for a computer engineering graduate is $118,752 with a median signing bonus of $15,000.
Discover your power. Become a Grainger Engineer.
Your path to Grainger Engineering starts with connecting your passion and interests with the opportunities available in one of our 15 top-ranked major programs. Explore your options and gather the information you need to take the next step and apply.
We solve problems first.
What You'll Study
The computer engineering core curriculum focuses on fundamental computer engineering knowledge: circuits, systems, electromagnetics, computer systems, electronics for information processing and communication, and computer science. Instruction is given using a combination of lecture, discussion, laboratory, and project methodologies of the highest quality. The large number of laboratory courses and superb access to advanced computer facilities provide excellent practical experience in the field. Engineering design, communication, and teamwork are integrated throughout the curriculum.
The rich set of ECE elective courses in addition to labs permits you to concentrate in any sub-discipline of computer engineering including: hardware systems; cyber physical systems; foundations and theory; software and languages; algorithms and mathematical tools; trust, reliability, security; networking, mobile and distributed computing; big data analytics and systems; artificial intelligence, robotics, cybernetics. Joining the computer engineering program as a Grainger Engineering student will provide you with a strong foundation coupled with advanced coursework in the area(s) of your choosing.
Read Our Blog
- Graduate
- Careers
Building a career in computer science without a CS degree
November 11, 2024
Learn about the Illinois Computing Accelerator for Non-specialists (iCAN) program, a one-year certificate program for those who want to pursue a career in computer science but do not have a degree in it.
- Research
- Undergraduate
June 27, 2024
Meet the Grainger Engineers who are trekking across the country with their teammates for a united cause! Illini 4000 is a student-led nonprofit organization that raises funds for cancer research and patient support services.
- Entrepreneurship
- Alumni
Planting the seeds of creativity and innovation
June 3, 2024
We met with Richard and Robert Mauge, twin MechSE alumni who started their own manufacturing company, MATRICS. This machining and design business serves startups and small businesses, fulfilling the types of jobs not practical for large manufacturers.
Post-Graduation Success
The computer engineering curriculum prepares you to be able to create the wide array of computing systems and devices that we all use and depend upon every day. About seventeen percent of our computer engineering graduates continue their education in graduate school, and about seventy-four percent take positions in industry.
Graduates also pursue careers in computer system architecture, GPU architecture, hardware design, microprocessor design, programming, research and software architecture. The average salary between 2022-2023 for computer engineering grads was reported as $118,752 ,with a median signing bonus of $15,000.
95%
employed or continuing education*
63%
employed after graduation
32%
attending graduate school
$118,752
average starting annual income*
Sample employer destinations: Microsoft, Amazon, Capital One View All
Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Carnegie Mellon University, Stanford University View All
*Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics reported are from 2022-2023. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website.
Upcoming Events
Plan Your Visit
Planning to visit the department? Please let us know of your plans, we‘ll make sure you get the most out of your visit.
Take a Tour
Want to see the Electrical and Computer Engineering Building?Complete the form below, or, to take a self-guided tour, pick up a tour booklet near the ECE Office of Advancement in the northeast corner of the building’s first floor.
Your future starts here.
Applying to The Grainger College of Engineering opens the door to your future as a successful engineer. Get started by scheduling a visit, requesting information, or submitting your application.