Computer Engineer: Education and Job Training Requirements for Becoming a Computer Engineer

Published Sep 15, 2009

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Computer engineers are needed each day to manage computer-based technologies used by businesses and individuals around the world. Most computer engineers begin their careers with bachelor's degrees from an accredited school. However, graduate and doctoral degrees in computer engineering are required for career advancement and competitive positions within well-known companies or academia.

Computer Engineer Career Summary

Computer engineers manage computer hardware and software. Most hold bachelor's degrees in computer engineering or computer science and are capable of installing hardware and software applications for various interfaces or platforms. Computer engineers also design computer chips, rebuild memory drives and operating systems or write computer programs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), www.bls.gov, the continued growth of computer-based technologies will fuel better than average growth for computer engineers from 2006 to 2016.

Education Required to Become a Computer Engineer

Most employers require computer engineers to hold at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or computer science. Although many community colleges and technical schools offer associate degree programs aimed at launching students into the entry-level workforce quickly, individuals with graduate degrees or higher in computer engineering have the best opportunity for advancement. A bachelor's degree in computer engineering may lead to analyst, associate engineer or associate programmer positions.

Job Training and Certifications Required to Become a Computer Engineer

Individuals completing a bachelor's degree in computer engineering will study subjects, such as introduction to electrical and computer science, fundamentals of computer design, digital signal design and electric circuits. Upon completion of a bachelor's degree program, computer engineers may choose to seek voluntary professional certification through a private organization related to one's degree. According to the BLS, individuals with professional certification will have the competitive edge for employment.

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