University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The Computer Engineering curriculum blends fundamentals of electrical engineering with computer science to give you a thorough grounding in both hardware and software. Early years focus on mathematics, physics and core engineering principles; later years focus on digital systems, microprocessors, embedded systems, and system design. The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory work, team-based design projects and a culminating capstone design experience.

• Core technical areas: circuits and electronics, digital logic and systems, microprocessor and embedded system design, computer architecture, data structures and algorithms, operating systems, signals and systems, control systems, and electromagnetics.
• Laboratories and practical work: electronics and digital labs, embedded systems and microcontroller labs, FPGA/HDL development, hardware/software co-design, and testing/measurement techniques.
• Design and project work: year-long or semester capstone projects that require team-based design, documentation and presentation; many projects address real-world client or industry problems.
• Optional and advanced topics: VLSI and semiconductor design, wireless communications, computer networks, robotics and autonomous systems, cybersecurity for embedded devices, signal processing, and machine learning for real-time systems.
• Professional development: courses and workshops on engineering ethics, project management, technical communication, and entrepreneurship. The programme integrates cooperative education placements for practical experience.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a strong secondary-school record with a solid background in mathematics and science. Applicants are expected to have completed high-school level mathematics (including calculus where available) and physics; coursework in computer science or programming is advantageous.

• Domestic applicants: a high-school diploma with competitive grades in mathematics and science subjects; successful applicants usually demonstrate problem-solving skills and preparation for rigorous STEM study.
• Transfer applicants: college-level coursework in calculus, physics and introductory programming is normally required; community college students with completed associate coursework in relevant areas are regularly admitted into later years of the programme.
• International applicants: an equivalent secondary-school qualification with strong performance in mathematics and physics; proof of English language proficiency (for example, recognised English tests) is required where English language ability has not been demonstrated through previous study.
• Additional considerations: participation in relevant extracurricular activities (robotics clubs, coding competitions, internships) and strong personal statements or references may strengthen an application. Placement in the co-op programme often depends on academic standing and preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates of Computer Engineering move into roles that bridge hardware and software. The programme prepares you for careers designing and developing embedded systems, digital and analog hardware, and integrated hardware-software solutions across many sectors.

• Common job titles include hardware engineer, embedded systems engineer, firmware developer, FPGA/ASIC designer, systems engineer, test and validation engineer, robotics engineer and network/hardware integration engineer.
• Graduates find work in industries such as semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, automotive and autonomous systems, telecommunications, medical devices, aerospace and defence, industrial automation, Internet of Things (IoT) companies, and cybersecurity firms.
• Private industry roles are complemented by opportunities in research and development, technical consulting, and product management; many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in electrical/computer engineering or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati is known for its cooperative education model, which integrates paid, structured work placements with academic study and gives students substantial industry experience before graduation. The College of Engineering and Applied Science offers ABET-accredited programmes, specialised laboratories, and connections with local and national employers.

• Cooperative education: extensive co-op opportunities across tech, manufacturing and research organisations help students build professional experience, technical skills and industry contacts.
• Research and facilities: access to dedicated labs for embedded systems, VLSI/FPGA development, robotics, autonomous systems and electronics testing supports hands-on learning and faculty-led research projects.
• Industry connections: partnerships with companies in the Cincinnati region and beyond facilitate internships, project sponsorship and recruitment for full-time roles.
• Support services: career services, mentoring, student engineering societies and maker spaces help you develop technical skills, soft skills and a professional network.