University of San Diego

What you'll study

The Master of Science in Computer Engineering combines coursework in digital systems, embedded computing, and advanced computer architecture with hands-on laboratory and design work. Students study core topics such as computer architecture, digital logic and VLSI fundamentals, embedded systems and real-time operating systems, and hardware description languages. Elective options typically cover areas like wireless communications, signal processing, robotics and control, FPGA design, machine learning for embedded devices, and networked systems.

Programme structure commonly includes a mixture of lecture courses, laboratory modules and a culminating capstone or thesis project. The capstone emphasises practical systems integration and often involves multidisciplinary teams working on real-world problems. Lab work uses industry-standard tools for simulation, FPGA development, embedded microcontrollers, and PCB prototyping.

• Core modules: computer architecture, digital system design, embedded systems, real-time systems.
• Typical electives: VLSI and semiconductor devices, FPGA and reconfigurable computing, signal processing, wireless systems, robotics and control, security for embedded devices.
• Research and project work: capstone design project or thesis option involving hardware/software co-design and experimental validation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer science or a closely related STEM discipline from an accredited institution. Admissions committees look for evidence of strong mathematical and programming foundations, and prior coursework in digital logic, circuits, and systems is advantageous.

Typical application materials include official academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining technical interests and goals, a current résumé or CV, and academic or professional references. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required by specific pathways; international applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through a recognised test unless exempted.

Relevant professional experience in engineering or computing can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants whose undergraduate preparation was in a different but related field.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme are prepared for engineering and technical roles that require both hardware and software competence. Job titles commonly held by alumni include embedded systems engineer, FPGA/ASIC engineer, firmware developer, hardware design engineer, systems architect, robotics engineer and IoT systems developer. The programme also provides a strong foundation for doctoral study or research roles in industry.

Graduates find opportunities across sectors such as consumer electronics, telecommunications, defence and aerospace, medical devices, automotive systems and robotics, as well as startups developing connected devices and sensor systems. The combination of lab-based design experience and system-level coursework helps alumni transition into roles that require rapid prototyping, productisation and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego’s engineering school emphasises small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and project-based learning, enabling hands-on experience with contemporary engineering tools and workflows. Located in the San Diego region, the programme benefits from proximity to a strong local technology ecosystem and established industry employers in wireless, defence, biotech and electronics, which supports internship and industry-collaboration opportunities.

Students can access on-campus labs and specialised facilities for embedded systems, FPGA development and rapid prototyping, and work with faculty engaged in applied research that spans communications, robotics and systems engineering. The university’s focus on interdisciplinary education and ethics complements technical training, preparing graduates to design reliable, secure and socially responsible technologies.