Overview
Computer hardware engineers develop and design new processor chips that power computers, tablets, smart-phones and play a central role in countless other modern electronic devices, appliances, and vehicles.
This EFA focuses on the design of modern high-performance computers and microcontrollers, including digital electronics, computer and processor architecture, and the design and testing of integrated circuit chips.
Students pursuing this EFA may find employment with large computer chip manufacturers such as Intel and AMD, or any of thousands of smaller companies that design customized digital hardware for use in their products and applications.
Students interested in this EFA are encouraged to consider the course suggestions listed below when completing their Plan of Study Form.
| EE Computer Track Requirements | Suggested Options |
|---|---|
| Track | Computer Track |
| Depth Elective (Select One) |
ECE:5300 Switching Theory ECE:5320 High Performance Computer Architecture (Same as: CS:5610) ECE:5380 Testing of Digital Logic Circuits |
| Breadth Elective (Select One) |
ECE:3410 Electronic Circuits ECE:3540 Communication Networks ECE:3720 EE Materials and Devices |
| 5000-Level ECE Elective (Select Two) |
All 5000-level depth electives listed above and
ECE:5310 VLSI Design (Prerequisites: ECE:3320 and ECE:3410 ) ECE:5410 Advanced Circuit Techniques (Prerequisites: ECE:3410) |
| Technical Elective (Select Three) |
All breadth, depth and 5000-level ECE electives listed above and
CS:2230 Computer Science II: Data Structures (Required) |
| Additional Elective (Select One*) |
Any of the above OR course selected in consultation with advisor.
|
* Students graduating before Fall 2017 are required to select two additional electives.
Advising Notes
- All Computer Track students satisfy the requirements for a minor in Computer Science.
- A minor in Mathematics can be earned by including one qualifying Math course in the EFA plan.