Computer engineers specialize in hardware or software engineering, requiring a college education, with a bachelor’s degree being the minimum level. High school students should have a solid foundation in mathematics and computer classes. Joining organizations and internships can provide work experience and networking opportunities. Analytical ability, creativity, attention to detail, teamwork, and communication skills are important qualities.
Computer engineers take care of computer systems for businesses, government agencies and other organizations. They usually specialize in hardware or software engineering. To become a computer engineer, a college education is typically required, with a bachelor’s degree being the minimum level. A more advanced degree can translate into more challenging work or faster advancement. Depending on your area of interest, you could major in software engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, systems engineering, or another related field.
To be accepted into an engineering school, it is important during high school to have a solid foundation in mathematics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and basic sciences such as physics, biology, and chemistry. It’s also important to take as many computer classes as possible that your school offers. Joining an organization like Future Scientists and Engineers of America or equivalent if you live outside the United States can be helpful if you want to become a computer engineer.
Four-year college engineering programs typically focus during the first two years on courses in math, basic science, and introductory engineering and computer programming, as well as general education courses such as social studies, humanities, and others. The final two or three years of college often delve into software and hardware engineering studies. Many bachelor’s degree engineering programs can take five instead of four years to complete, so this is something to think about when looking at university programs.
When considering colleges, ask about what types of work experience programs the schools offer. Discover part-time or summer internship opportunities with companies and organizations. Working on an internship will help provide work experience and may provide contacts for future jobs. Another area to ask yourself is whether a school you are considering participates in partnerships with companies, such as research studies or development programs, which may also provide real-world experience in hardware or software engineering.
It is also helpful to join student chapters of professional hardware and software engineering organizations if you want to become a computer engineer. These organizations will help prepare you for the profession, as well as provide networking opportunities. Many professional organizations also provide their members with job listings.
Qualities that are important if you want to become a computer engineer include analytical ability, creativity and a detailed orientation. The ability to work as part of a team towards a common goal is important, and having good oral communication skills will come in handy. Strong writing skills for preparing computer specifications, software documentation, and other written materials will help you after you become a computer engineer.
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