Computer engineering discipline curricula is vast and varied, with specialized electives differing from university to university. However, all computer engineers learn about the hardware and software aspects of computer science generally blended with principles of electronic circuits and circuit theory.
While computer science engineering degrees are offered by many universities and colleges across America, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, University of California, Berkeley and Virginia Tech are rated the top institutions.
Computer engineering-related occupations include software analysts, hardware technicians, programmers, Web developers, network architects, telecommunication specialists, database developers and computer scientists.
Depending on specific requirements, domain skills and job roles, computer engineers work in large corporations, or for technology enterprises, federal government agencies, consulting firms, defense contractors and multi-lateral institutions.
Computer engineers can generally expect to begin with a median $55,000 starting salary, with experienced engineers commanding an $100,000 annual compensation package.