B.S. in Computer Engineering

Program Overview

The B.S. in Computer Engineering at South Dakota Mines is a four-year undergraduate program that focuses on the integration of computer hardware and software. Students gain proficiency in areas such as writing firmware for embedded microcontrollers, designing microprocessors, interfacing with various sensors, and building real-time operating systems. The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on and immersive experience, enabling students to understand the full spectrum of computer system development. The program is ideal for those who want to understand not just how to code, but also how the underlying hardware enables those functions, preparing them for roles where hardware and software interaction is critical.

STEM-designated: Yes, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Engineering program at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is a STEM-designated degree. This designation is highly advantageous, particularly for international students on an F-1 visa, as it qualifies them for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This allows for an additional 24 months of post-completion work authorization in the U.S. beyond the initial 12 months, providing a total of up to three years of valuable practical experience in their specialized field.

ABET-accredited: Yes, the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Engineering program at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). ABET accreditation is a globally recognized mark of quality, ensuring that the program meets the rigorous standards of the engineering profession. This accreditation is crucial for graduates seeking professional licensure and is highly valued by employers worldwide, signifying that graduates are prepared for entry into the global engineering workforce.

Curriculum: The B.S. in Computer Engineering curriculum at SDSMT is rigorous and deeply technical, building a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and computer science. Freshman year includes courses like Survey of Computer Science and Engineering, Test-Driven Software Development, Introduction to Digital Systems/Lab, and Calculus I. Sophomore year delves into Data Structures & Algorithms, Circuits I & II (with labs), Differential Equations, and University Physics II. Junior and senior years cover advanced topics such as Electronics I, Signals and Systems, Linear Algebra, CPU & GPU Organization and Architecture, Software Engineering and Design, Control Systems, Embedded Intelligent Systems, Real-Time Operating Systems, and Senior Design Project I & II. The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive expertise in both hardware and software aspects of computing.

Research Focus: South Dakota School of Mines & Technology strongly encourages undergraduate research, and the Computer Engineering program provides avenues for students to gain exposure to topics from designing innovative computer hardware to a deep understanding of robotics and intelligent systems. While specific faculty research areas within Computer Engineering are not explicitly detailed in the provided snippets, the broader Computer Science and Engineering department has research interests that include artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, data science, information retrieval, Internet of Things (IoT), and cybersecurity. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and research experiences to explore their interests, providing hands-on engagement with cutting-edge technologies.

Industry Engagement: SDSMT places a high priority on industry engagement for its Computer Engineering graduates. The program's hands-on and immersive approach, coupled with its emphasis on real-world projects, directly aligns with industry needs. Industry partners consistently hire SDSMT students for internships and full-time positions. The university boasts a high placement rate (97% in STEM fields for the 2023 graduating class) and excellent starting salaries. Potential employers span various sectors, including alternative energy production and control, manufacturing automation, supercomputing, IoT device management, and avionics. Companies like Collins Aerospace, Daktronics, Digi-Key Electronics, Echostar, Emerson, and Garmin are noted as potential employers, showcasing strong industry connections.

Global Perspective: The B.S. in Computer Engineering program at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology inherently fosters a global perspective by addressing technological challenges with universal applications and implications. Computer engineers design systems and solutions that are used worldwide, from IoT devices and mobile computing to supercomputing and intelligent automation. The ABET accreditation ensures that the education meets internationally recognized standards, preparing graduates to work in multinational corporations or contribute to global technological advancements. While specific international exchange opportunities are not detailed for this program, the fundamental nature of computer engineering and its rapid global evolution prepares graduates for careers in an interconnected world where technological innovation transcends national borders.