University of Tulsa

What you'll study

The Master of Science in Computer Engineering emphasises both theoretical foundations and practical design. Students follow a mix of core courses, elective options, and a culminating project or thesis. Typical core subjects include advanced digital systems, computer architecture, embedded systems, and VLSI/ASIC design. Supporting topics often covered are real-time systems, hardware-software co-design, high-performance computing, and signal processing.

• Core modules: computer architecture and organisation; digital system design and verification; embedded systems and microcontroller interfacing; hardware description languages and FPGA design.
• Electives: operating systems for embedded platforms, machine learning for edge devices, low-power design techniques, networked and cyber-physical systems, and advanced topics in software engineering for systems.
• Research/project work: students typically complete a supervised project or thesis that applies design and experimentation—examples include prototyping an embedded device, implementing a custom accelerator on FPGA, or evaluating architectural trade-offs for parallel systems.
• Format and delivery: the programme is delivered through lectures, laboratory sessions, and supervised research. Emphasis is placed on hands-on use of development boards, FPGA toolchains, and industry-standard simulation and verification tools.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Admissions typically consider the overall academic record, relevant coursework in mathematics and core engineering subjects, and preparation in programming and digital systems.

• Academic background: undergraduate degree in a relevant field. Candidates who lack some prerequisites may be admitted conditionally and expected to complete specified bridge courses.
• Application materials: official transcripts, a statement of purpose describing academic and research interests, a current résumé or CV, and letters of recommendation.
• Testing and language: some applicants may be asked to provide results from standardised tests where relevant; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency according to the university’s requirements.
• Experience: prior exposure to programming, digital logic, and calculus-based mathematics is expected. Professional experience or prior research can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Computer Engineering are prepared for technical careers designing and developing computing systems across hardware and software. Common roles include embedded systems engineer, FPGA/ASIC designer, firmware engineer, systems architect, and hardware validation engineer. Graduates also enter roles in robotics, telecommunications, semiconductor companies, defence and aerospace, automotive systems, and companies building Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Those interested in research or academia frequently pursue doctoral study, while others move into engineering management or product development roles. The programme’s combination of hands-on labs and systems-level coursework helps graduates transition to industry positions that require cross-disciplinary skills.

Why study at University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa offers a focused, student-centred environment with access to faculty who engage in applied research and industry collaboration. The department supports close mentorship, small class sizes and opportunities to work on projects that leverage on-campus laboratories and development facilities.

• Applied learning: emphasis on practical laboratory work and projects that prepare students for real-world engineering challenges.
• Research and industry links: opportunities to work with faculty on applied research and to connect with regional and national industry partners for internships and project sponsorships.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: students can collaborate across electrical engineering, computer science and related areas to tailor their studies to interests such as embedded AI, communications, or system security.
• Career support: university career services and department-level advising help students find internships, co-op experiences and full-time positions after graduation.