Santa Clara University

What you'll study

The Computer Engineering programme is an accredited, four-year undergraduate curriculum that blends core engineering science, computer science and practical laboratory work. Coursework builds from foundational mathematics and physics through circuits and digital logic to advanced topics in computer architecture, embedded systems and hardware–software integration.

• Core sciences and maths — calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, probability and physics for engineers.
• Electrical engineering fundamentals — circuit theory, electronics, signals and systems, and control principles.
• Computer engineering and computing — digital logic and design, microprocessors and assembly language, data structures and algorithms, operating systems and computer networks.
• Specialised topics — embedded systems, real-time systems, FPGA and HDL design, VLSI basics, computer architecture, and cybersecurity fundamentals.
• Laboratory and design work — progressive hands-on labs in electronics, digital systems, microcontroller and FPGA projects, plus software development projects integrating hardware and firmware.
• Capstone senior design — a team-based year-long project that emphasises system design, documentation, testing and professional communication; projects often come from industry partners or faculty research.
• General education and professional development — humanities, ethics, communication and project management to develop well-rounded engineers equipped for leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary-school qualification with a strong emphasis on mathematics and science. Typical preparation includes advanced-level mathematics (calculus where available), physics, and coursework or experience in computer science or programming.

• Competitive academic record in secondary school; universities may consider the strength of curriculum alongside grades.
• Recommended prerequisites: calculus, algebra/trigonometry, physics and an introduction to programming.
• Personal statements, letters of recommendation and evidence of extracurricular engagement in STEM (such as robotics, coding projects or engineering clubs) strengthen applications.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as specified by the university.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions for transfer-credit evaluation; practical experience or community-college coursework in engineering and computing can be beneficial.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and interdisciplinary roles across the technology sector and beyond. The programme emphasises practical skills that employers seek for designing, testing and integrating hardware and software systems.

• Common entry roles: embedded systems engineer, firmware developer, hardware design engineer, test and validation engineer, systems engineer and software developer.
• Work sectors: consumer electronics, semiconductors, telecommunications, automotive and autonomous systems, medical devices, aerospace, robotics and defence.
• Other pathways: graduate study in electrical or computer engineering, computer science or related fields; entrepreneurship and product development; technical project management or consultancy.
• Students frequently gain industry experience through internships, co-op placements and projects with Silicon Valley companies, which support job placement and professional networking.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University offers Computer Engineering within a teaching-focused, Jesuit liberal arts context that emphasises ethics, social responsibility and hands-on learning. Its location in Silicon Valley provides immediate proximity to major technology firms, startups and research labs, creating strong opportunities for internships, collaborations and recruiting.

• Small class sizes and accessible faculty who balance teaching with applied research and industry engagement.
• State-of-the-art laboratories for electronics, embedded systems and digital design, plus support for senior design projects and student research.
• Active ties to Silicon Valley employers and alumni, enabling internship pipelines, mentoring and industry-sponsored projects.
• Comprehensive career services and professional development resources to help students prepare résumés, practice interviews and explore entrepreneurship or advanced study.