Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering Undergraduate Major

Program of Study

Computer engineers make computers faster, smaller, and cheaper. There are currently four big-picture categories for undergraduate computer engineering courses at ISU:

Computer Architecture: This area concentrates on the speed, dependability, usability, and versatility of the physical computer components. This field leads to areas such as embedded computer systems and reconfigurable computer systems.

Networking and Security: This area concentrates on how systems house and safeguard data and access to that data, as well as designing and modeling simulations of hardware systems. This field leads to areas such as computer intrusion detection and electronic countermeasures.

Software Engineering: This area concentrates on the scope and capability of software and software systems. This field leads to areas such as real-time systems and virtual reality.

Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSI) Circuits: Digital VLSI concentrates on RAM and the design of integrated circuits, which includes high-speed/high-performance parts and designs. This field leads to areas such as high-speed communications.

To learn more about how you can make a difference in these fields, see our students describe these areas in short videos.

Courses and Planning

Other Learning Opportunities

We work hard to provide you with a practical, hands-on education through a variety of activities:

Computer Resources

Our department is committed to state-of-the-art computing facilities. We have 12 labs built specifically for your technical classes, and two general labs for you to do your homework.

Finances

At Iowa State University, you'll get a great education for a great price. We also offer scholarships and financial aid to make it even more affordable:

Campus Visits and Admissions

If you haven't already visited, sign up to tour our beautiful campus today!

Apply to Iowa State University online or through the mail.

For More Information

For more information about the computer engineering undergraduate major or other questions, contact Vicky Thorland-Oster, advising coordinator, 515-294-8778, vlthorl@iastate.edu.