The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering bridges the curriculum gap between electrical/electronic engineering and computer science. The program is designed to provide a broad background in both the theory and practice of computer hardware and software design and their integration into usable advanced digital systems. The curriculum includes courses in embedded systems that employ microprocessors and field-programmable gate arrays, software engineering, computer architecture, high performance computing, design of Internet of Things (IoT) systems, microelectronic circuits, computer networking, and cybersecurity. Technical electives are designed to enable students to gain expertise in computer hardware and software as well as fundamental knowledge in areas such as encryption.  

The rapid adoption of the IoT, the advancements in autonomous systems, and the ubiquitous integration of microprocessors and field-programmable gate arrays in homes and in industrial applications means that there is a tremendous demand for computer engineers who optimize the design of these systems to minimize energy consumption yet remain extremely responsive, can design innovative systems to enhance our quality of life, and ensure the safety of the systems on which we rely from malicious actors. Job prospects are excellent; computer engineering students are some of the most heavily recruited graduates on campus and the average starting salaries have been significantly higher than those offered to mechanical and civil engineering graduates. Our California State University, Chico students gain the knowledge and the hands-on design skills needed to immediately contribute to the profession and to build highly rewarding careers.  

The computer engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and the Electrical, Computer, Communications, Telecommunication(s) and Similarly Named Engineering Program Criteria. 

Computer Engineering Program Mission 

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department educates each computer engineering student to be a responsible and productive computer engineer who can effectively respond to future challenges.

Computer Engineering Program Objectives 

Program educational objectives describe the career and professional accomplishments that the program strives to prepare its graduates to achieve within five years. The computer engineering program prepares its graduates to 

• Contribute to solutions of engineering problems by applying their technical knowledge, their experience with modern industry tools, and their understanding of the impact that engineering can have on global, societal, and environmental issues. 
• Assume project/product management and team leadership roles in their organizations. 
• Engage in activities that sustain and promote their careers by securing professional licenses, completing graduate courses and/or degree programs, and/or pursuing informal learning opportunities. 
• Contribute to society through involvement in professional and/or service activities. 

Computer Engineering Student Outcomes 

Computer engineering graduates should have the ability to 

1. Identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. 
2. Apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors. 
3. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences. 
4. Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts. 
5. Function effectively on a team whose members work together to provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives. 
6. Develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions. 
7. Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies. 

Computer Engineering Design Experience 

Design and innovation are fundamental aspects of the computer engineering curriculum and they are integrated into the curriculum beginning in the freshman year where students are introduced to both hardware and software design and the tools that support the design activities. As students expand their knowledge and analysis skills through the sophomore and junior years, the designs that they create are of increasing complexity. Students engage in design projects that allow them to demonstrate their expertise in the design of advanced microprocessor systems which transfer data to and from the cloud and perform time-critical operations, create high performance embedded systems that employ the latest field-programmable gate arrays, configure robust computer networks, and develop complex software systems.

The design experience culminates in the senior year when each student proposes their own capstone project, creates target specifications for the project using industry-standard procedures, models and simulates the operation of their project, and then constructs and characterizes their project to prove the design functions as they envisioned. Projects chosen by students often include elements of both hardware and software design. Descriptions of recent student capstone projects can be found on the Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering Department website. 

Honors in the Major 

Honors in the Major is a program of independent work in your major. It requires six units of honors coursework completed over two semesters. 

The Honors in the Major program allows you to work closely with a faculty mentor in your area of interest on an original performance or research project. This year-long collaboration allows you to work in your field at a professional level and culminates in a public presentation of your work. Students sometimes take their projects beyond the University for submission in professional journals, presentation at conferences, or academic competition. Such experience is valuable for graduate school and professional life. Your honors work will be recognized at your graduation, on your permanent transcripts, and on your diploma. It is often accompanied by letters of commendation from your mentor in the department or the department chair. 

Some common features of Honors in the Major program are: 

Honors in the Major is not part of the Honors Program. Each department administers its own program. Please contact your major department or major advisor to apply.