Florida International University

What you'll study

The Computer Engineering curriculum blends electrical engineering and computer science to give a balanced grounding in circuits, digital logic, microprocessors, software and systems engineering. The programme typically progresses from foundational mathematics and science to core engineering and specialised computer engineering topics, with laboratory work and a team-based capstone project.

• Foundations: calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, physics, and discrete mathematics that underpin engineering analysis and computing.
• Programming and software: introductory and advanced programming, data structures and algorithms, software engineering principles, and operating systems.
• Electronics and hardware: circuit analysis, analogue and digital electronics, digital systems design, microprocessors and microcontrollers, and VLSI basics.
• Systems and networks: computer architecture, embedded systems, real-time systems, computer networks and communications.
• Analysis and modelling: signals and systems, control fundamentals and probability and statistics for engineers.
• Design experience: laboratory courses, hands-on projects and a senior capstone design course where students conceive, prototype and present integrated hardware–software systems.
• Electives and specialisation: options commonly include cybersecurity, machine learning, robotics, mobile systems, FPGA design and high-performance computing depending on availability and student interest.
• Professional development: courses and activities addressing engineering ethics, communication skills and project management, plus opportunities for internships and undergraduate research.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a secondary-school qualification or equivalent with strong performance in mathematics and physics. Typical preparation includes:

• A high-school diploma with advanced-level mathematics (calculus recommended) and physics; computer science or programming experience is advantageous.
• Evidence of academic readiness such as school grades and, where applicable, standardised test scores or placement assessments as required by the university.
• International applicants must present an equivalent secondary credential and satisfy English language proficiency requirements (for example, recognised tests or university-approved exemptions).
• Transfer applicants should have completed comparable college-level coursework in calculus, physics and programming; admissions may consider prior college GPA and course content.
• Successful candidates typically demonstrate problem-solving ability, strong quantitative skills and a commitment to engineering through coursework, projects, extracurricular activities or relevant work experience.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Computer Engineering degree are prepared for roles that span hardware and software. Employers include technology manufacturers, semiconductor companies, systems integrators, telecoms firms, defence contractors, medical device manufacturers and software companies. Common early-career roles include:

• Embedded systems engineer / firmware developer
• Hardware design engineer (digital/analog/VLSI)
• Systems or solutions architect
• Network or communications engineer
• Test and validation engineer
• Robotics and automation engineer
• Cybersecurity engineer focusing on hardware/software assurance

Graduates also progress to graduate study in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science or related fields, and many pursue professional engineering licensure or industry certifications to advance technical or management careers.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University’s College of Engineering and Computing provides a campus-based engineering education with extensive laboratory facilities, research centres and links to industry in the Miami region. Students benefit from:

• Hands-on learning in engineering laboratories and maker spaces where circuit design, embedded systems and robotics can be prototyped and tested.
• Opportunities for internships and cooperative experiences with local technology companies, startups and multinational firms that operate in the region.
• Access to undergraduate research with faculty across areas such as hardware systems, communications, embedded computing and intelligent systems.
• A multicultural campus and professional network that supports broad industry connections and prepares students for work in diverse technical teams.
• A senior capstone design sequence emphasising practical system development, teamwork and professional skills valued by employers.

Together these elements prepare graduates of the Computer Engineering programme for technical roles that require both electrical engineering insight and software competence, or for further study and research in computing and engineering disciplines.