The U.S. Government projects that computer software engineering will be one of the fastest growing engineering degrees over the next ten years. Obtaining a bachelors degree from a computer engineering program will require both dedication and a sound foundation in math and science. For the committed student, however, the computer engineering field will offer a wide variety of advantages:
A computer software engineer can work on a wide variety of projects. From Myspace layouts to computer hardware design, there’s little that this versatile degree can’t offer the prospective student.
There are many paths to a successful career in computer engineering. A student can study at a traditional university or one of a number of accredited online universities. In addition, a student can obtain a bachelor’s, a master’s, or a PhD in the field. The variety of options helps a student to match his individual needs to the best program for him.
This internet thing is here to stay. As technology advances, more and more computer engineers will be needed to design both systems and the software to run those systems. Also, growing security concerns of businesses and governments will result in the need for more engineers to design and test electronic safeguards. While entry level jobs are typically good in the field, a few years experience can lead to opportunities as a project manager or consultant.
A computer engineer can look forward to being quite well compensated. The average computer software engineer makes around 80,000 dollars a year, with only 10% of the workforce falling below 50,000.
So, you love computers and you think what it takes to get into the field? Here are a few recommendations:
Take an intro level programming class before you commit. This will give you an idea of the level of math involved in software engineering, and, perhaps more importantly, it will give you a feel for the sort of non-linear thinking involved in programming.
Research the program you’re entering. Regardless of if you’re getting a traditional or an online engineering degree, you need to know something about the program. If at all possible, talk to former students.
Stay up to date with the latest technology. A website like cnet can provide a great deal of information, and it’s always good to be conversant in the tech that you’d like to work with.