Be a Computer Science Engineer: Career Information and Requirements

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field can help prepare students for a career in computer science engineering. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or Computer Science and Engineering are available. In these programs, which usually take four years to complete, students learn about the theoretical and practical aspects of computer engineering, the mathematical foundations of computing and computer hardware and software development techniques. Classes in these programs may cover topics like operating systems concepts, artificial intelligence, database systems, programming languages, electronic circuits and software engineering.

Success Tip

• Complete an internship. Some computer science and computer engineering bachelor's degree programs offer students the opportunity to complete internships. These internships provide students with experience and additional knowledge that can be useful when looking for employment.
• Consider concentrating your studies. Some bachelor's degree programs allow students to concentrate their studies in an area such as software engineering. Students planning to work in a specific area of computer engineering, such as software application engineering, may find that concentrating their studies in that area improves their employment prospects.

Step 2: Begin Working in the Field

Computer hardware engineers create blueprints for new computer hardware, modify new computer hardware as needed and update existing computer hardware so that it works with newly developed software programs. They may also test computer equipment, design new hardware components and select the materials to use to make hardware.

Computer systems software engineers oversee computer software operating system programming activities, modify existing software programs to correct errors and coordinate the installation of new software programs. Computer software applications engineers perform much of the same job tasks, but for application programs and not operating systems.

Success Tip:

• Consider becoming certified. Several organizations offer credentials to experienced computer professionals. For example, the Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals offers the Certified Computing Professional credential to individuals with at least two years of work experience or a degree in computer science.
• Consider earning a government clearance. Some employers may prefer to hire workers who are able to obtain and maintain a government clearance. Acquiring a government clearance usually includes undergoing a background check.

Step 3: Consider Earning a Master's Degree

According to O*Net Online, some applications engineers have master's degrees. Software engineering-related classes in these programs cover topics like software metrics and quality assurance, evaluating software programs and advanced Internet application development. Possessing a master's degree may increase employment opportunities.