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Computer Engineering Concentration in Engineering
A computer engineering concentration focuses on the design of computer hardware, embedded systems, and digital electronics. It typically builds on the engineering program core and adds courses that bridge electrical engineering and computer science. Most schools offer this track at the bachelor’s and master’s levels, and much of the coursework can be completed through an online engineering degree.
Quick Answers
What is a computer engineering concentration in engineering?
A computer engineering concentration is a focused set of courses within an engineering program that emphasizes hardware design, embedded systems, and digital electronics.
What do you typically study in this concentration?
Coursework includes digital logic design, computer architecture, embedded systems, VLSI design, and operating systems.
Is this concentration available online?
Many schools offer this concentration online, but availability depends on degree level and start-term scheduling.
Back to Engineering Concentrations
At a Glance
- Focus area: Hardware design, embedded systems, and digital electronics
- Degree levels: Commonly available at bachelor’s and master’s level
- Career alignment: Computer Hardware Engineer – $161,740 median (BLS, May 2025)
- Job growth: 7.3% projected growth, 2024-2034 (BLS, May 2025)
- Employment: 75,710 computer hardware engineers employed nationally (BLS, May 2025)
- Online availability: Available at many accredited programs
For an overview of all degree paths, see the Engineering Program Guide, and review the typical engineering curriculum and accreditation standards that apply across concentrations.
What you typically study
| Course Topic | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Digital Logic Design | Boolean algebra, combinational and sequential circuits |
| Computer Architecture | Processor design, memory systems, and instruction sets |
| Embedded Systems | Microcontroller programming, real-time systems, and interfaces |
| VLSI Design | Integrated circuit design, layout, and fabrication basics |
| Operating Systems | Process management, memory management, and system calls |
| Hardware Lab | Circuit prototyping, FPGA programming, and hardware testing |
Questions to ask before choosing this concentration
- How many courses are required versus elective options?
- Are there prerequisite courses for this track?
- Does the concentration include a capstone or applied project?
- Is the concentration available online and in your desired term?
How engineering concentrations compare
| Concentration | Focus Area | Related BLS Career | Median Salary (BLS, May 2025) | Projected Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | Thermal systems, mechanics, design | Mechanical Engineer | $102,320 | 9.1% |
| Electrical Engineering | Circuits, power systems, electronics | Electrical Engineer | $111,910 | 7.2% |
| Civil Engineering | Structures, transportation, water | Civil Engineer | $99,590 | 5.0% |
| Computer Engineering | Hardware, embedded systems, digital | Computer Hardware Engineer | $155,020 | 7.3% |
| Industrial Engineering | Optimization, operations, quality | Industrial Engineer | $101,140 | 11.0% |
| Chemical Engineering | Processes, materials, reactions | Chemical Engineer | $121,860 | 2.6% |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
Next Steps
- Explore related roles in the engineering careers guide and pay context in the engineering salary guide.
- Compare accredited online programs across the online colleges hub.
- Consider a related track such as the electrical engineering concentration.
Data verified: June 7, 2026. Salary, employment, and tuition figures on this page are sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS May 2025; Employment Projections 2024–2034) and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (2023 cohort). The source agency and data year are cited inline with every statistic.