University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The Computer Engineering programme blends circuits and electronics, digital system design and computer science topics. Early years emphasise mathematics and basic sciences (calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, physics) plus introductory programming and discrete mathematics. Core engineering courses cover circuit analysis, signals and systems, electronic devices, digital logic, microprocessors, computer architecture, operating systems and data structures.

• Laboratory and design courses in electronics, digital systems and embedded systems to build practical skills with hardware and low-level software.
• Advanced electives such as VLSI/CAD, FPGA design, computer networks, real-time systems, cyber-physical systems, machine learning for embedded devices and hardware security.
• Senior capstone design project where teams deliver a complete hardware/software system, from specification through testing and verification.
• General education and writing requirements to develop communication skills, plus technical electives that allow specialisation or a minor in a complementary area.

Entry requirements

Admissions look for a strong foundation in mathematics and science. Successful applicants typically present high achievement in high-school maths (including calculus), physics and related STEM subjects. Prior programming experience and extracurricular projects in electronics or computing are advantageous.

• Academic preparation: strong grades in calculus, physics and mathematics; familiarity with algebraic reasoning and basic programming.
• Recommended background: coursework or independent experience in programming, electronics or robotics; AP/IB/other advanced coursework can be helpful but is not required.
• Application materials: academic transcripts and standard application documents; international applicants should demonstrate comparable academic preparation and English proficiency where required.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of technical roles in industry and research. The degree prepares students for positions that require both hardware and software expertise and strong systems thinking.

• Typical roles: embedded systems engineer, firmware developer, FPGA/ASIC designer, hardware engineer, systems engineer, software engineer with low-level or performance focus, network hardware engineer.
• Industries: semiconductor and hardware companies, consumer electronics, automotive and autonomous systems, aerospace, communications and networking, industrial automation, and IoT.
• Further study: many graduates pursue master’s or doctoral research in electrical and computer engineering, computer science, robotics, or related fields.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers Computer Engineering within a research-active College of Engineering with access to faculty working on systems, hardware design and embedded computing. The curriculum emphasises hands-on laboratories, team-based capstone projects and opportunities to take specialised electives across electrical engineering and computer science.

• Research and facilities: access to on-campus labs and research groups that support projects in digital systems, embedded devices and related areas.
• Industry connections: strong internship and co-op links across New England and nationally, and career services that support engineering students in placements and employer engagement.
• Flexible pathways: ability to combine technical electives, minors or certificates to tailor your degree toward software, hardware or interdisciplinary applications such as robotics or cybersecurity.