Computer Engineering Boston University

Overview

Where would we be without computers? Modern computers are complex systems that may consist of single machines or many interconnected computers linked by a network. Computers are playing an increasingly active role in our lives; they are the “brains” inside of telephone and communications systems, process control and manufacturing automation systems, information management systems, large household appliances, automobiles, transportation systems, and medical instrumentation—not to mention the internet. Behind all of these devices—and the explosive growth of our technological society—is computer engineering. As a computer engineer, you will learn to engineer hardware, software, and computer networks.

As a Computer Engineering student at Boston University, you will begin by building a strong foundation in the basics—physical sciences, mathematics, and computer science—all of which are necessary for a successful understanding of engineering. After establishing a foundation, you will enhance your understanding of the theory and application of computer engineering through courses designed to help you acquire specific techniques and skills in subject areas such as logic design, computer organization, operating systems, software design, and algorithms. You will also enroll in technical electives to help you gain a broader understanding of the subfields of computer engineering, such as VLSI, networking, and software design. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to explore areas of Cybersecurity and the Internet of Things through a sequence of available courses.

During the senior year, you will join electrical engineering students in a year-long, department-wide capstone design project that draws upon all of the knowledge and skills that you will have learned in your previous years of study. Structured to resemble a real engineering company, the capstone project class will require you to design a product to meet customer needs and specifications. Design teams are responsible for product conception, development, testing, and construction, as well as budget management, oral presentations, and documentation.

Learning Outcomes

• an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics

• an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors

• an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

• an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts

• an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives

• an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions

• an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.