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College Classes Needed for Computer Hardware Engineers
College Classes Needed for Computer Hardware Engineers
Interested in becoming a computer hardware engineer? Learn about the education needed, the courses required before the major, courses you'll take during the major, and the licensure needed to work.
What Education Is Needed to Become a Computer Hardware Engineer?
Computer hardware engineers are a type of computer engineer who primarily work with and develop hardware, designing chips and planning integrated circuits. They generally work with a team of other engineers on a particular device and are responsible for testing products and ensuring they meet safety guidelines and function at expected levels. A career as a computer hardware engineer requires a bachelor's degree at minimum, usually in computer or electrical engineering, although concentrations in hardware engineering specifically are available at some universities.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Computer Hardware Engineers</b></td><td> A type of computer engineer specializing in hardware</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Pre-major Course Requirements</b></td><td> Physics, calculus, computer science</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Major Courses Required</b></td><td> Microprocessors, integrated systems, network architecture</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Licensure</b></td><td> Professional Engineer (PE) license</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhatKindsOfCoursesWillINeedToTakeToJoinADegreeProgramInComputerEngineering">What Kinds of Courses Will I Need to Take to Join a Degree Program in Computer Engineering?</h3><p>As with most engineering degrees, those planning to major in computer engineering will need a solid understanding of math and science to be accepted into the program. Physics, calculus, computer science, and chemistry courses are commonly required before admission to the major. Some universities may require that students work on a general engineering major before being allowed to move into a more specific type of engineering, at which time courses like engineering skills, circuit analysis, and intro-level courses for computer engineering may be needed.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatKindsOfCoursesWillITakeWhileWorkingTowardsAMajorInComputerEngineering">What Kinds of Courses Will I Take While Working Towards a Major in Computer Engineering?</h3><p>Computer engineering majors will continue along the same track, studying math and science further in addition to the more specialized courses. These math and science courses might include discrete math, linear algebra, physics, and thermodynamics. Classes within the major will tackle subjects like microprocessors, control systems, data structure and algorithms, integrated systems, and computer logic. Computer engineering students are expected to understand computers from the ground up, from circuits to software. If a designated concentration in computer hardware is not available, using electives within the major to study integrated circuit design, microcontrollers, network architecture, and any other courses offered which deal with hardware components specifically can be helpful. Electrical engineering courses will often have overlap with computer engineering and may hold more value for those hoping to become hardware engineers.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatElseWillINeedToWorkAsAComputerHardwareEngineerAfterGraduating">What Else Will I Need to Work as a Computer Hardware Engineer After Graduating?</h3><p>To work as an engineer in many fields, a license is required, and computer hardware engineers are no different in this regard. After graduating, it is best to apply for an engineer-in-training license, which will allow you to work until you can become fully licensed. Requirements vary from state to state, but the requirements of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) are used as a guide; this involves two tests, known as the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, available after or shortly before graduating, and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, which requires 4 years' experience in the field. The FE exam needs to be completed first. Upon completion of both exams, you will be recognized as a Professional Engineer (PE) and may receive greater pay and responsibilities as a result.</p>
