B.A. in Creative Industries and Entrepreneurship
York College of Pennsylvania offers over 70 baccalaureate majors across professional pr...
B.S. in Computer Engineering
York, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Engineering at York College of Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive program that bridges the disciplines of electrical engineering and computer science. It focuses on the design of electronic devices controlled by microcontrollers and microprocessors, emphasizing both hardware (sensors and actuators) and software design. The program is specifically tailored for students interested in designing and building the physical components of computer systems and integrating them seamlessly with software, preparing them for a wide array of career options in digital electronics, embedded systems, software engineering, communication systems, and robotics.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the B.S. in Computer Engineering program at York College of Pennsylvania is inherently a STEM-designated field. This classification is significant for its rigorous foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and it often provides benefits such as eligibility for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension for international students in the United States.
ABET-Accredited: The Computer Engineering program at York College of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). ABET accreditation is a globally recognized standard that assures the quality of engineering education, signifying that the program meets the criteria necessary to prepare graduates for professional practice in the field. This accreditation is crucial for career recognition and often a prerequisite for professional licensure.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.S. in Computer Engineering requires a minimum of 128 credits and is built on a strong foundation of mathematics, science, and computer science. Key courses include Fundamentals of Computer Engineering, Microprocessor System Design, Communication Networks, Embedded System Design, Operating Systems, and Software Engineering and Design. The program integrates electrical engineering and computer science courses, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience and engineering design from the first year. It also features a distinctive two-semester senior capstone design project, where students engage in multidisciplinary design and build real-world prototypes. Additionally, the curriculum allows for breadth and depth through concentration areas and elective engineering courses, providing flexibility for students to tailor their studies.
Research Focus: York College of Pennsylvania's approach to "research focus" within the Computer Engineering program is highly practical and applied. The program emphasizes "learning by doing," with students immersed in design projects from their freshman year. The senior capstone design sequence involves students working in teams on complex, real-world design and build experiences, often for actual clients. This experiential learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, analyze data, and use modern engineering tools to solve contemporary problems in hardware and software design, rather than focusing on abstract academic research. Faculty actively mentor students in these hands-on, innovative projects within state-of-the-art laboratories in the Kinsley Engineering Center.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a hallmark of the Computer Engineering program, significantly enhanced by a built-in two-semester (four-credit) co-op work experience (ECE 491 and ECE 492). This full-time, paid professional experience provides students with invaluable real-world exposure, allowing them to integrate classroom knowledge with practical application and build a robust resume before graduation. Graduates gain concrete technical skills in both software and hardware design and analysis, preparing them to excel in entry-level engineering positions. The program's strong industry connections facilitate these co-op placements and overall career readiness.
Global Perspective: The B.S. in Computer Engineering program at York College of Pennsylvania implicitly fosters a global perspective by preparing students for a field that is inherently global in its application and impact. Understanding communication networks, embedded systems, and software engineering for devices used worldwide requires an awareness of diverse user needs, international standards, and global technological trends. While specific dedicated "international computer engineering" courses might not be a primary highlight, the technical and problem-solving skills developed are universally applicable in an interconnected world. The program aims to produce graduates who are adaptable and innovative, ready to contribute to technological advancements that serve a diverse global society.
Location
York, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 26920
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
York College of Pennsylvania offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students in achieving their academic goals while easing financial burdens. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and other special talents among international applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to York College are considered for merit-based scholarships automatically during the admissions process. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall application strength. High-achieving students can receive significant tuition discounts, which help make studying in the U.S. more affordable.
International Student Scholarships: York College provides dedicated scholarships for international students, which may include renewable awards throughout the duration of their degree program. These scholarships acknowledge the diverse backgrounds and contributions international students bring to the campus community.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain academic departments at York College offer scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional performance or promise in their chosen field of study. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities by contacting their academic departments directly.
York College of Pennsylvania's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Engineering provides a unique blend of electrical engineering and computer science, preparing graduates for a wide range of in-demand careers in the tech sector.
Embedded Systems Engineer: Designs, develops, and tests embedded systems, which are specialized computer systems designed for specific functions within larger devices. This could involve anything from consumer electronics and automotive systems to medical devices and industrial controls.
Software Engineer: Develops, designs, and maintains software applications and systems. While computer science focuses more broadly on software, a computer engineer brings a deeper understanding of how software interacts with underlying hardware.
Hardware Engineer (Computer Hardware Engineer): Designs, develops, and tests computer hardware components, such as circuit boards, processors, memory devices, and networking equipment. This role is crucial for creating the physical infrastructure of computing.
Robotics Engineer: Works on the design, development, and application of robots. This includes integrating mechanical components with electrical systems and programming their intelligence and functionality, directly leveraging both hardware and software expertise.
Firmware Engineer: Specializes in writing and integrating "firmware" – software that is permanently stored on a hardware device and controls its basic functions. This role is a direct intersection of hardware and software development.
Network Engineer: Designs, implements, and manages computer networks, ensuring efficient and secure data communication. Computer engineers' understanding of both hardware (routers, switches) and software (network protocols) is highly valuable here.
Applications Engineer: Works with customers to understand their technical needs and applies engineering principles to design, develop, and integrate solutions using existing products or systems, often requiring a blend of technical expertise and client-facing skills.
Automated Systems Engineer: Focuses on designing, developing, and implementing automated systems for various industries, such as manufacturing, logistics, or smart buildings. This involves integrating sensors, actuators, and control systems.
Cybersecurity Engineer (Hardware/Embedded Security): While a broader field, computer engineers can specialize in securing hardware and embedded systems from cyber threats, designing secure boot processes, secure communication protocols, and hardware-level security features.
Test Engineer/Quality Assurance Engineer: Designs and executes tests for hardware and software systems to identify defects, ensure functionality, and verify performance against specifications before products are released.
