Computer Engineering

Overview

Computer engineering is an exciting discipline that blends topics from computer science (such as software development) and electrical engineering (such as digital hardware) to create digital systems that benefit society.

Computer engineers design and develop products that range from home appliances and computers to industrial robots, from cars to airplanes. The processes range from simple algorithm development to processing of images containing massive amounts of information.

Computer engineers influence fields such as computers, computer systems, energy, information technology, manufacturing, micro-electro-mechanical systems, nanotechnology, power generation, and transportation. They also hold influential positions in a variety of research laboratories.

The program has a solid foundation of mathematics and science, computer programming, digital circuit design, engineering design, communication skills, and Miami 's traditional liberal-arts education. In addition, electives from other areas of engineering, computer science, physics, and mathematics can satisfy personal interests.

Program Highlights

• Students get hands-on laboratory experience with hardware, participating in extensive laboratory experiences in electric circuits, electronics, and digital systems.
• Students get hands-on laboratory experience with software development, using object-oriented programming and computer architecture.
• In senior design projects, students complete open-ended/team-oriented projects that tie the curriculum together.
• Students have the opportunity to double-major in computer engineering and electrical engineering with one semester of additional coursework.

Required Courses

Science, engineering science, and mathematics courses are fundamental to all engineering. Physics, chemistry, engineering mechanics, thermodynamics, and mathematics and statistics courses help to prepare students for in-depth study of computer engineering subjects.

Computer science courses provide a foundation in software design and development using contemporary design approaches and practices.

Electrical engineering courses provide a foundation in circuit design, digital systems, and communication systems.

A course in economics, technical writing, and the Miami Plan Foundation rounds out the program, offering flexibility for choosing a variety of career options or future study in graduate school.

Student Organizations and Professional Networks

Miami offers a wealth of student professional and honorary organizations in addition to student chapters of national technical societies that exist for all engineering majors. Participation allows students to develop leadership skills, interact with professionals in their field, and take part in educational activities that have significance beyond the campus. Key organizations include the following:

• Association for Computing Machinery
• Association of Women in Computing
• Society of Women Engineers
• Student National Technical Association
• Women in Math, Science, and Engineering

After Graduation

Computer engineering is one of the fastest-growing disciplines in Ohio and in the nation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects computer engineering as the second highest growth field in the nation, at a rate of 107.9 percent between 1998 and 2008. Computer science is first at 117.5 percent. The Ohio Bureau of Employment Services projects computer engineering as the highest growth field in careers between 1996 and 2000, with a growth rate of 102.7 percent. Computer science is 93.6 percent.

For More Information

For general information about Miami University, please contact:

Office of Admission
301 S. Campus Ave.
Miami University
Oxford, Ohio 45056-3434
513-529-2531 (v/t)
www.muohio.edu/requestinfo

For specific information on the Computer Engineering major, please contact:

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
260 Engineering Building
Miami University
Oxford, Ohio 45056
513-529-0740
www.eas.muohio.edu/ece