Dartmouth University

What you'll study

This programme emphasises the design, analysis and implementation of computing systems that combine electronic hardware and software. Core areas of study typically include digital system design, computer architecture, embedded systems, real-time operating systems, hardware description languages and verification, signals and systems, and hardware–software co-design. Students also study advanced topics such as VLSI/ASIC design, FPGA development, low-power design, networking and distributed systems, and applied machine learning for edge devices.

Programme structure commonly offers a mix of required core courses and electives, laboratory modules and team-based projects. Students choose between a project-based professional track and a research/thesis track; the project option culminates in a capstone design or industry-sponsored project, while the research option culminates in a supervised thesis. Hands-on laboratory work, access to prototyping facilities (e.g. FPGA and PCB labs), and interdisciplinary collaboration with computer science, electrical engineering and other departments are emphasised throughout.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a closely related quantitative discipline, with strong preparation in mathematics (calculus, linear algebra), programming and basic electronics. Typical supporting application materials include official academic transcripts, a personal statement describing academic and professional goals, a CV or résumé, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

Some applicants will be invited to interview. Where English is not the applicant’s first language, a recognised English proficiency qualification is normally required. Previous industry experience, undergraduate research, or relevant project work are helpful but not always required; specific prerequisites may be set for applicants whose undergraduate training lacks particular courses.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Master’s in Computer Engineering pursue roles across the hardware–software product lifecycle. Common career paths include embedded systems engineer, firmware developer, FPGA/ASIC designer, systems architect, hardware verification engineer, and IoT systems engineer. Graduates also move into related roles in robotics, sensor networks, autonomy, telecommunications and high-performance computing.

Many students join technology companies, startups or research labs, working on product development, prototyping and system integration. Others continue into doctoral study or research-oriented positions in industry. The programme’s emphasis on project work and industry partnerships helps graduates transition into engineering leadership and technical specialist roles.

Why study at Dartmouth University

At Dartmouth’s Thayer School of Engineering you benefit from a small-cohort, highly collaborative environment that blends rigorous engineering training with the wider liberal-arts context of the college. The programme is known for hands-on learning, close faculty mentorship and access to well-equipped prototyping and electronics laboratories that support rapid iteration from concept to functioning hardware.

Students gain interdisciplinary opportunities through collaborations with computer science, electrical engineering and other departments, and access to a broad alumni network and industry partnerships that support internships and project sponsorships. The emphasis on both theoretical fundamentals and real-world design prepares graduates to take on complex engineering challenges in industry or research.