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 #5 by U.S. News & World Report.
- 84% of students reported having an internship or co-op during their degree program.
- 89% of students reported securing their first choice destination upon graduation.
- The average starting salary for a computer engineering graduate is $119,064 with a median signing bonus of $10,000.
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 19 top-ranked major programs. Explore your options and gather the information you need to take the next step and apply.
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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
- Careers
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August 11, 2026
Are you interested in a career in computing but aren't sure which major is right for you? Many students assume computer science is the only pathway into computing, but that's far from your only option. We're here to help you determine which pathway may be the best fit for your interests and career goals.
- Experiences
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- Experiences
- Undergraduate
Future engineers start here: A guide to prospective and admitted student visits
April 20, 2026
We’ve broken down our Grainger Engineering visit experiences so you can choose the one that best fits what you want to see, do and learn as you explore your future at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign!
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 thirty-three percent of our computer engineering graduates continue their education in graduate school, and about fifty-seven 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 2024-2025 for computer engineering grads was reported as $119,064, with a median signing bonus of $10,000.
89%
employed or continuing education*
57%
employed after graduation
33%
attending graduate school
$119,064
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 2024-2025. 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.