Computer Engineering (B.S. in Engineering)

Opening text and CTAs

Does developing new technology appeal to you? When you earn a degree in computer engineering, you will become expert at the intersection of computer science and electrical engineering to make a professional impact in this important field.

Pride Points

100%

of electrical and computer engineering graduates working full time have a job related to their degree

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

$70K-$80K

median starting salary for recent College of Engineering and Applied Sciences graduates working full time

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

98%

of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences undergraduates participated in experience-driven learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report

Pursue a bachelor's degree in computer engineering

Computer engineering deals with the research, development, design, operation and application of all forms of electronic digital components, smart systems, embedded computers, IOT, personal electronic devices and larger computers and systems. 

In this program, you’ll get to study concepts and then learn by doing. You’ll work hands-on in labs to understand how digital devices and circuits work, explore things like digital signals, and see how computer hardware is built—from small embedded systems all the way up to supercomputers. You’ll also learn the programming skills that make computers and digital systems run.

You will participate in hands-on projects with local industry and engage in research. With professors who are leaders in their fields and academic advisors who guide your progress, your time at WMU culminates in a Senior Engineering Design project where you will be part of a team completing a project for industry.

And if graduate school is in your future, you can save time and money with our accelerated master's program.

What you'll learn

As a computer engineering student, you will learn to research, design and implement the operation and application of electronic digital computer systems. You will study the architecture and physical construction of digital computers as well as important programming aspects.

Because all engineers must consider non-technical as well as technical factors in the design process, you will also take courses in the humanities, social sciences and communication. 

Design courses in your senior year cap off your studies and give you a practical, integrated experience in engineering design.

Camryn Ruiz, B.S.E’24

Project-based learning was probably the most important thing I did at Western. The classes, the clubs, the internships—all of them gave me hands-on experience that was invaluable.
— Camryn Ruiz, B.S.E’24

Where you'll be after graduation

Recent graduates of our program are working in roles such as automation engineer, embedded software engineer, software developer, project engineer and firmware engineer. They in diverse industries at companies such as Ford Motor Company, Intel, DENSO, FEMA Corporation, Stryker, Gentext, Control System Integrators and more.

Making the most of your learning experience

  • Professors and advisors will support your participation in real-world experiences that will set you apart when you launch your professional career.
  • You'll make lifelong friends and apply your skills by joining student organizations such as WMU Computer Club and Bronco Cybersecurity Club.
  • Internships and co-ops will all boost the knowledge you build in your coursework.
  • Your time at Western culminates in a Senior Engineering Design project, where you will team you up with peers and industry to apply your knowledge to a real world project.
Cameron Ruiz, computer engineering student, working on solar car

What scholarships are available for computer engineering students

A number of scholarships are available for students enrolled in the computer engineering program at Western. We encourage you to apply for all scholarships that match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs.

Frequently asked questions

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from WMU pursue careers in fields such as software engineering, systems and digital design, smart sensor research and automation. They also work with digital device and circuit fundamentals, digital signal processing computations, the architecture and physical construction of hardware elements from small embedded systems to super computers, as well as important programming, or software, aspects of digital computers and systems. Graduates have job titles such as software engineer, systems designer and automation engineer.

Yes, in the computer engineering program you will learn through hands-on opportunities.

  • Professors incorporate hands-on learning into your coursework, including projects in academic labs.
  • WMU’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences has more than 25 student organizations, including the WMU Computer Club. These organizations allow you to compete and network with peers at other institutions while extending your learning.
  • Many students also complete internships or co-ops during their time in the program.
  • All students complete a Senior Engineering Design capstone project, where you work as a team to address real-world projects.

Yes, there are a number of scholarships available for students enrolled in the computer engineering program at Western. You may also be eligible for additional scholarships from WMU. We encourage you to apply for all scholarships that match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs. 

View scholarship information.

As an engineering and applied sciences student, you should enjoy solving problems using math and science and possess a strong desire to make a difference in the world. Once you successfully complete pre-engineering requirements, you’ll apply to the upper-level professional program where you’ll dive deeper into your specific major.

View admissions information for first-year students

View admissions information for transfer students

Yes, we welcome students who are interested in transferring to WMU from a community college or other college or university. View transfer information and set-up an appointment to meet with an advisor.

Yes, we offer an accelerated degree program that allows you to complete a master’s degree in computer engineering in just one additional year. Weave graduate courses (up to 12 credits) into your WMU undergraduate degree in computer engineering, and earn both your bachelor's and master's degrees. Learn more about accelerated master’s degrees at WMU and view the requirements for the accelerated master’s degree in computer engineering.

Many students in the computer engineering program participate in internships or co-ops during their time at WMU. Check with a faculty member or your academic advisor for more information.

Western gives you options for receiving academic support in mechanical engineering. Check with your professors or instructors during office hours to ask questions about your courses or find tutoring via the Bronco Study Zone.