University of Virginia

What you'll study

The Computer Engineering curriculum combines foundational mathematics and physical sciences with core topics in electrical engineering and computer science. Early study emphasises calculus, linear algebra, physics, and introductory programming, followed by progressively specialised subjects and laboratory work.

• Core engineering fundamentals: calculus, differential equations, physics for engineers, signals and systems.
• Electrical and electronic systems: circuit analysis, electronic devices, analog and digital design, semiconductor fundamentals.
• Computer systems and software: data structures and algorithms, computer organisation and architecture, operating systems, compilers and systems programming.
• Embedded and digital design: microprocessors and microcontrollers, embedded systems, FPGA and HDL design, digital signal processing.
• Communications and networks: networking principles, digital communications, wireless systems (elective‑dependent).
• Design and laboratory experience: hands‑on labs in circuits and digital systems, software labs, and capstone senior design projects that require team‑based hardware/software integration.
• Electives and breadth: students choose electives in areas such as VLSI design, machine learning, robotics, cybersecurity, power electronics, or computer vision, and complete general education requirements to ensure broad intellectual development.

The programme typically culminates in a year‑long or semester capstone design project where students conceive, design, prototype and document a substantial hardware/software system. Opportunities exist to take multidisciplinary electives, pursue minors, or participate in undergraduate research alongside faculty.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Virginia is selective. Successful applicants for the Computer Engineering major typically present a strong secondary school record with extensive preparation in mathematics and science. Recommended academic preparation includes:

• High achievement in advanced mathematics (calculus if available) and physics.
• Prior exposure to programming (languages such as Python, C/C++ or Java are helpful) and problem‑solving experience from competitions, projects or coursework.
• Competitive overall academic credentials in the context of the university's admissions process; transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement are considered.
• Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or other recognised college‑level credits may be accepted for placement or to satisfy prerequisites, subject to the School of Engineering and Applied Science policy.

Applicants interested in transfer into the major should review the engineering school’s transfer policies; prior calculus and engineering or programming coursework at college level strengthen a transfer application. Standardised tests may be considered according to the university's testing policy—consult admissions guidance for current practice.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Computer Engineering degree are prepared for roles that bridge hardware and software. Common early‑career paths include:

• Hardware design engineer (digital/analog circuits, boards, ASIC/FPGA development)
• Embedded systems engineer and firmware developer
• Systems engineer for networking, telecommunications or cloud infrastructure
• Software engineer focusing on systems software, device drivers or performance‑critical applications
• Controls and robotics engineer, or roles in connected devices (IoT)
• Security engineer specialising in hardware and firmware security

Graduates also pursue graduate study in electrical/computer engineering or computer science, or professional programmes such as business or law. The programme’s balance of theory and practice is valued by employers in industries such as semiconductors, aerospace, telecommunications, automotive, medical devices and defence, as well as by startups and research laboratories.

Why study at University of Virginia

The University of Virginia’s School of Engineering and Applied Science offers a curriculum that emphasises hands‑on design, collaborative projects and close faculty mentorship. Students benefit from access to research centres and well‑equipped labs for microelectronics, embedded systems, robotics, and networking. The school maintains partnerships with regional and national industry, providing internship and co‑op opportunities and active career services.

Beyond academics, UVA offers a supportive student community with engineering student societies (such as IEEE and the Society of Women Engineers), regular hackathons, design competitions and entrepreneurship resources. The Charlottesville setting provides a blend of campus life, research activity and proximity to technology employers, making it an environment suited to focused study and professional development.