What Is Computer Engineering? Career Guide + FAQ

In computer engineering, innovation meets practicality, shaping the technology that powers everything from smartphones to complex robotics. As a branch of both computer science and electrical engineering, it blends hardware and software development, allowing professionals to work across a range of industries, from telecommunications to aerospace. Whether you're passionate about building hardware systems or writing software, computer engineering offers a dynamic career path that keeps pace with the ever-evolving world of technology. Specialising in this field gives you the ability to create impactful solutions that shape the future.

What is computer engineering?

Computer engineering is a branch of computer science and electrical engineering. This field of study combines several disciplines to design and develop software and hardware systems. Your specialisation or focus area of study directs your professional growth in either software, hardware, electrical, or networking aspects of computer engineering. 

What's the difference between computer science and computer engineering? 

Although computer science and computer engineering are closely related, they have a few key differences. Both require critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills, and technical expertise. However, computer scientists focus more on theorising and developing ways to use software to solve real-world problems. They must be able to work with programming languages such as Python and Java. Computer engineers typically work more closely with hardware and computer systems as a whole. Computer engineering students gain programming skills to assist with software design but generally focus their studies on disciplines like electrical engineering and physics.

What do computer engineers do?

Computer engineers work with all aspects of computer operating systems, from software to robotics. As a computer engineer, you’ll work closely with other engineers and programmers to design computer systems and test their functionality. You’ll remain up to date with the latest technology and update software and hardware to keep systems running smoothly.

Where do computer engineers work?

Computer engineering professionals work in research labs, private sectors, and state and local governments. If you want to become a computer engineer, consider pursuing the specialisation or focus area that interests you most. You can start researching engineering jobs by browsing job posts. Even if you aren't yet ready to apply, this exercise can help you get a feel for the differences in responsibilities and pay from industry to industry. You can explore roles in telecommunications, robotics, and aerospace technology, among other interesting technologies, as a computer engineer.

How much do computer engineers make?

The average annual salary for computer hardware engineers is ₹3,00,000, according to Glassdoor [1]. Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai are among the top-paying cities for computer engineers in India [1]. 

How to become a computer engineer

A bachelor’s degree can open doors to entry-level opportunities in computer engineering, whilst a master’s or PhD can qualify you for more senior positions. If you don't plan on earning a degree or you're considering making the switch from another role, you may supplement your experience with certifications or engineering programmes. Below is a beginner-friendly option you can use to build a strong foundation of computer engineering knowledge:

• Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems. This online, self-paced course can be completed in just 17 hours. By the end, you'll be able to identify and describe internal desktop and laptop computer components, interfaces, and peripherals. You'll also earn a certificate from IBM, an industry leader in technology.

Essential workplace and technical skills for computer engineers

• Knowledge of operating systems

• Understanding of computer network and hardware architecture

• Digital and microprocessor engineering design

• Debugging and troubleshooting

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Problem-solving and analytical skills

• Critical and creative thinking

Computer engineering specialisations

You can choose to specialise in a specific area of computer engineering by taking courses related to the field. A specialisation shows prospective employers you have expertise in that field and can give you an advantage against non-specialised computer engineers vying for the same job. Focus areas to consider include computer communications and networking, software, architecture, and cybersecurity. For example, you can specialise in the Internet of Things (IoT) by earning a certificate in IoT Devices from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. 

Engineering experience

The more experience you have as a computer engineer, the more employment prospects you’ll likely have. Internships and work-study programmes can give you early career experience to list on your resume. You can find employment and internship opportunities via various job boards, including general employment boards like Naukri. Or, consider the following online, project-based course:

• Build a Modern Computer from First Principles. In this guided programme, you will build a computer using a software-based hardware simulator, just like real computers are designed by computer engineers. By the end, you'll have a project to add to your portfolio and a certificate for your resume.

Join professional organisations

Professional organisations can provide you with networking opportunities and keep you up to date on current industry events and news. Some organisations include the Computer Society of India and Technology and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

Take the next step today with Coursera

Computer engineering centres on the practical aspects of developing and using computers. In this field, you can take on roles such as network engineer, embedded software engineer, mobile device engineer, and more. 

If you're ready to continue expanding your computer engineering expertise, you can enrol in IBM's online, beginner-friendly course, Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems, today. This flexible, seven-module programme offers insights into core hardware and operating system principles through interactive exercises and hands-on labs.