Computer Engineering, BS

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program at the University of Alabama is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and Program Criteria for Electrical, Computer, Communications, Telecommunication(s) and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.

This program gives students a broad knowledge of the software and hardware components of modern computing and cyber-physical systems, detailed computer-systems design, and the role of computer systems in various engineering disciplines.  Students completing the program will be prepared for a computer-oriented engineering career with emphasis on design and applications of embedded computing systems.

Graduates with a Computer Engineering BS degree commonly begin their careers in a variety of functions including: hardware engineers, software engineers, computer systems analysts, computer support specialists, network system & data managers, communication analysts, network & computer systems administrators, computer programmers, database administrators, operations research analysts, and computer & information scientists.  These graduates also pursue post-graduate degrees in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Business & Commerce, and even professional areas such as Law and Medicine.

The information contained here describes the undergraduate curriculum in Computer Engineering. Graduate students and students participating in the Accelerated Masters Program (AMP) should consult the graduate catalog for information on all cross-listed and graduate-only courses. More information about various programs within the department is available in the Electrical and Computer Engineering departmental office located in 3027 SERC.

Program Educational Objectives

The Program Educational Objectives for the B.S. in Computer Engineering are:

• Graduates will excel in engineering careers and/or postgraduate education utilizing knowledge of Computer Engineering disciplines and underlying fundamental principles of science and mathematics, engineering analysis, problem solving, and design;
• Graduates will expand their knowledge of current and emerging issues in Computer Engineering and continue career-long professional development through engagement in lifelong learning;
• Graduates will grow professionally and advance throughout their engineering careers utilizing skills in effective communication; responsible, multidisciplinary teamwork, and adherence to principles of professional accountability and ethics.

Student Outcomes

Graduates of the Computer Engineering program will have:

1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics;
2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specific needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors;
3. An Ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
4. 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;
5. 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;
6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions;
7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies;
8. An ability to solve mathematics problems in probability, statistics, differential equations, linear algebra, complex variables, and discrete mathematics as they relate to problems in Computer Engineering.