In the most general sense, computer engineers find the hardware and software that best meet a  business’s technological, scientific and administrative needs. Since nearly every industry depends on computer hardware and software, computer engineers can choose to work in any sector they like, as they’ll always be in demand. For students of color, a computer engineering degree is a great way to gain a stable, well-paid career. This profession has been projected to grow by 17% between 2014 and 2024, and is expected to command salaries among the highest in the United States.

Most computer engineers also experience a high level of job satisfaction because the fields of engineering and computer science are constantly evolving and posing new challenges. These professionals also enjoy finding solutions to a variety of tech-related problems. Computer engineers have opportunities to contribute to important innovations, such as those in healthcare, communications, transportation and other fields.

Anyone who is interested in futuristic technology may also be a good candidate for computer engineering. By 2030, most everyday appliances are expected to have internet connectivity and will 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.

Whatever their interest, 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 include a wide range of related course subjects, which may include:

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

Careers in Computer Engineering

Graduates in this field may pursue careers in a wide variety of capacities. Some of these include:

• Telecommunications
• Network security
• Integrated circuits
• Robotics
• Embedded systems 
• Quantum computing
• Multimedia programming
• Forensic computer analytics
• Web development
• Game development
• Industrial, electrical, firmware or mechanical engineering
• Data science
• IT consulting
• Tech support

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How to Prepare for Success

In order to be successful, students in computer engineering should have excellent math, physics and electrical engineering skills. They should also be good at problem-solving, using creativity and understanding of design, management and communication. Roles in this field involve a great deal of teamwork, so students need to be patient, collaborative and keen learners as well.

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:

• Xavier University of Louisiana
• Spelman College
• Virginia Union University
• Claflin University
• Florida Memorial University
• Tuskegee University
• Clark Atlanta University
• Johnson C. Smith University
• Wilberforce University
• Fisk University
• Dillard University
• Bethune-Cookman University
• Huston-Tillotson University
• Tougaloo College

Professional Organizations

There are also many computer science and engineering organizations that can provide more insight into some of the specializations in this discipline:

• American Society for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T)
• Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) 
• American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) 
• Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology
• Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS)
• Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) 

Scholarships Available

Several scholarships are available through UNCF. The Target Scholars Program supports students pursuing a degree in technology. The UNCF General Scholarship Awards are an excellent opportunity for any student going to a UNCF-member college, regardless of their major. The Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship Program awards a $10,000 scholarship to one exceptional HBCU senior each year who has demonstrated high academic achievement, strong leadership skills, commitment to community service and unmet financial need.

Keep an eye on the UNCF website for current scholarship opportunities. Students should also check with each college or university to see if there are additional scholarships available to study computer science.

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 social media channels to receive notifications about our scholarships and member HBCUs. Reach out today!