Consider an Exciting Career in Computer Engineering

The dynamic world of computer engineering is a bustling field filled with opportunities, challenges, and constant innovation. Computer engineering is a hybrid discipline of computer science and electrical engineering, primarily focusing on hardware, software, and their integration.

Anyone interested in futuristic technology may also be a good candidate for computer engineering. By 2030, most everyday appliances will have internet connectivity and need effective networking capabilities. More and more aspects of daily life are moving online, and computer engineers will be among those who help to make this happen.

Fisk University

With nearly every industry depending on computer hardware and software, there’s a high demand for computer engineers. For students of color, a computer engineering degree is a great way to gain a stable, well-paid career. The field is rapidly expanding and is projected to grow by 22% between 2020 and 2030, with high salaries to match.

Students who plan to pursue careers in computer engineering will need to enroll in a degree program in computer engineering, computer science, or software engineering to join this field. These span a wide range of related course subjects, which may include:

Discrete mathematics
Differential equations
Integral calculus
Probability and statistics
Linear algebra
Engineering sciences
Physics
Computational chemistry
Biology (for biomedical engineering)
Computer algorithms
Systems programming

Potential Careers in Computer Engineering

There are a plethora of rewarding careers available for computer engineering graduates. These include but are not limited to:

Computer Hardware Engineer
Software Engineer
Network Architect
Cybersecurity Analyst
Data Scientist
Software Developer
Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Cloud Engineer

African American Representation in Computer Engineering

The statistics indicate an urgent need for greater representation and diversity in the computer engineering field to foster innovation and inclusivity. According to the National Science Foundation, African Americans represent only about four percent of the US workforce in computer and mathematical sciences.

In an era defined by technological advancements and rapid digitalization, ensuring diversity and inclusivity within the field of computer engineering is critical. The current underrepresentation of Black professionals in this sector has a multi-layered impact. Firstly, diverse teams tend to be more innovative, and innovation is the driving force of engineering. As such, significant inventions and innovations are being missed due to homogeneity in the field of computer engineering. By increasing Black representation in the industry, we tap into a wealth of novel ideas and perspectives, thus driving creative problem-solving and technological growth.

Morehouse College

Secondly, increased representation sends a powerful message to the Black community and, particularly, the younger generation. Seeing successful Black engineers in the computer industry breaks down barriers, provides role models, and demonstrates the value that Black computer engineering students can bring to the industry.

Lastly, but only more importantly as AI becomes more heavily used in myriad contexts, diversity in computer engineering can help address societal biases often seen in technological systems, such as machine learning algorithms. By contributing to the creation and oversight of these systems, Black engineers can play a crucial role in ensuring that the technology of tomorrow is equitable and just.

As a student, you can help achieve these goals by enrolling in an HBCU computer engineering program. Alternatively, you can support future enrollees with a donation that will ensure all Black students with a passion for computer engineering get a chance to improve the industry with their expertise!

Want to learn more about this possible career path and college major? Have questions about which UNCF colleges and universities offer degrees in computer engineering? Looking for help with financing this degree?

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How to Prepare for Success

If you’re a high school student interested in computer engineering, focus on subjects like mathematics (particularly calculus and algebra), physics, and computer science. You should also consider participating in coding boot camps and science fairs or joining computer clubs to enhance your skills. In addition, consider applying for internships in tech companies to get practical exposure.

Schools to Consider

To enter the field of computer engineering, students must at minimum earn an associate’s degree and preferably graduate from a bachelor’s and master’s program. These UNCF-member schools offer programs in computer sciences:

Professional Computer Engineering Organizations

Exploring professional organizations is an excellent way to learn about the field, network, and grow professionally. Some renowned computer engineering organizations include:

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)

Scholarships

There’s no better way to start on your path to a successful career in computer engineering than with a solid financial foundation. Fortunately, many scholarships are available through UNCF, including some specifically for computer engineering majors. Keep an eye on the UNCF website for current scholarship opportunities and announcements

You can search for current UNCF scholarship opportunities and check with colleges and universities to see if additional scholarships are available. You can find tips on applying for scholarships and grants here.

Reach out for guidance by submitting a major interest form if you are interested in a career in computer engineering. Submit the form on our website to get started, and follow us on UNCF’s social media channels to receive notifications about our scholarships and member HBCUs. Reach out today!

You can also show your support for students pursuing careers and furthering equity in computer engineering by contributing to UNCF member schools. Education is the greatest tool we have in creating a just and equitable society in which economic mobility is available to all. Help us achieve this future by donating today!