Master of Science in Computer Engineering

The purpose of this degree is to prepare students for advanced study and/or research or industrial practice in the field of computer engineering. The Master of Science in Computer Engineering (M.S.CP.E.) program builds a strong foundation in all aspects of the design and development of computer systems, with a specialization in a major area. Students have the option to pursue thesis research under the guidance of a faculty adviser. Areas of study include computer hardware design, computer networking and telecommunications, and computer system and application software. The program is normally completed in three semesters of full-time study.

The admission requirements for this degree follow the existing admission requirements for master’s degrees in the ECE department. Students whose accredited B.S. degree is not in computer engineering may pursue the M.S.CP.E., provided that they have an adequate background and can demonstrate proficiency in the material contained in the following undergraduate courses:

A student may demonstrate proficiency by successfully completing the courses or by demonstrating satisfactory performance in one or more special examinations administered by the department.

The program of study includes a minimum of 32 credit hours of acceptable graduate coursework, with a minimum of 21 credit hours of ECE coursework. A minimum of 20 credit hours must be taken at the 500-level or higher. Up to six credit hours of ECE short courses may be applied to the degree. Students, with adviser approval, select courses appropriate to their needs and interests. The program of study must include two core and two elective courses within one of the computer engineering (CPE) areas of concentration (computer hardware design, computer systems software, and networks and telecommunications), and at least one core course from each of the two remaining areas. An M.S.CP.E. candidate may, with permission of a thesis adviser, include in their program a thesis of six to eight credit hours. The master’s thesis is strongly recommended for pre-doctoral students. The thesis option requires a written thesis and an oral defense of the thesis. Thesis format and deadlines are set by the Graduate College.

CPE Areas of Concentration

Computer Hardware Design

Computer Systems Software

Networks and Telecommunications