Computer Engineering Degree

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering

The typical American household contains 17 connected devices on average.¹ You could work to develop the skills needed for these times of rapid technological adoption with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering from CTU. Along with a core curriculum of computer engineering—including design, development, and testing of equipment ranging from small embedded systems to supercomputers—you could study how to design and build within various constraints, including economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability.

At CTU, students come first. Our flexible online course schedules are designed to help you to build a class schedule around your schedule. And with grants and scholarships available for those who qualify, a degree from CTU can be both achievable and affordable. Learn more below or fill out the form to speak with an admissions advisor.

¹http://advanced-television.com/2024/01/12/research-17-connected-devices-per-us-household/ (visited 11/6/24).

186

Program Credits

5 Weeks

Course Length

Online Colorado Springs

Location

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering degree program is a 186-credit-hour program. The program includes 69 credit hours of general education courses and 117 credit hours devoted to the computer engineering core, which are designed to provide instruction in the design, development, and testing of computer equipment from small embedded systems to supercomputers.

This degree program is designed to help graduates prepare to enter this diverse engineering discipline with a strong technical background as well as analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills that enable them to excel as professionals contributing to a variety of engineering roles within the various fields of engineering and the high-tech industry. The program emphasizes that graduates of the computer engineering program will be committed to professional development and lifelong learning by engaging in professional or graduate education in order to stay current in their field and achieve continued growth.

This degree program integrates elements of electrical engineering and computer science to prepare students to design and develop computer hardware and software in computer-based embedded systems or devices.

This program does not lead to additional licensure or certification. As such, CTU has made no determination regarding prerequisites for licensure or certification in any state or jurisdiction.

Through innovative industry-current curricula and technology-enabled student-centered teaching, the College of Computer Science, Engineering and Technology empowers students to become motivated, creative, ethical, and skillful professionals who can resolve challenges in Computer Science, Computer/Electrical Engineering, and Information Technology in order to meet the needs of the digital economy.

* CTU programs are ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s 2023 Best Online Programs.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Enrollment and Graduation Data

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Courses

Courses: General Education		Credits
CHE105 This course provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of inorganic chemistry, including atomic and molecular structure, bonding types, reactions, equation and stoichiometry (a mathematical approach to solving problems involving chemical phenomena).	Introduction to Chemistry	5
COMS105 This course explores the importance of effective interpersonal communication. This course covers: how interpersonal communication impacts an individual, how to recognize the different methods of communication and establishing and maintaining personal and professional relationships through effective communication.	Interpersonal Communications	4.5
ECON210 This course addresses the dynamics of how our economy works (or does not work). The course explores the basic institutions, terminology, and theory of the main economic activities of production, distribution, and consumption, especially as they apply to the operation of our national economy. Topics include savings and investment, national output, expenditure and income, real versus potential GDP, aggregate demand and supply, and fiscal and monetary policy. Students explore the impact of the economy on different economic sectors that affect different career paths.	Principles of Macroeconomics	4.5
ENGL104 ENGL104 is the first course in a sequence of two composition classes designed to empower students to develop their voice, build confidence in writing, and develop both their writing and critical thinking skills. Students will have the opportunity to practice adapting their writing for different audiences, purposes, and platforms, and will be able to explore how the choices they make influence the meaning and success of their written communications. This course explores the use of the writing process to compose clear, organized writings that are appropriate for various audiences and purposes. This course introduces the importance of clear and persuasive writing in personal, professional, and academic contexts.	Introductory Written Communication	4.5
ENGL105 ENGL105 is the final course in the composition sequence and builds on the writing skills developed in ENGL104. In this course, students continue to practice writing for a variety of contexts, purposes, and audiences. Throughout the course, students incorporate research into their writing by using digital tools and resources to identify and cite credible sources following CTU APA guidelines.	Professional Written Communications	4.5
HIST120 This course introduces students to the events, conflicts, key figures, and turning points in United States History from 1950 to the present. Emphasizing the relationship between history and peoples’ lived experiences, this course examines key events, social movements, and the changing roles of the United States in the world. Exploring how historians use evidence to better understand the past, this course will also examine how history is shaped by different contexts and perspectives. Throughout the course, connections will be made between issues and events of the past and those that we face today.	Intro to American History: 1950 to the Present	4.5
MATH117 Polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions are studied in detail. The concept of a composite and inverse function is explored. Other topics covered include: polynomial division, partial fractions, conic sections, sequences, series, and parametric equations.	Precalculus	4
MATH205 MATH 205 begins with the concept of limits, including one-sided and limits involving infinity, and relates limits to the concept of continuity. The tangent line to a graph at a point leads to the definition of derivative and the rules of differentiation for both explicit and implicit functions, including polynomial, rational, trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions. Applications of the derivative include related rates, curve sketching, optimization problems and l’Hôpital’s Rule. Basic rules for integration are introduced, including the method of substitution. The definite integral is then applied to finding the area under and between curves. A graphing calculator or equivalent technology is required.	Differential Calculus	5
MATH207 The study of calculus is continued with the differentiation and integration of transcendental functions (exponential, logarithmic, inverse trigonometric, and hyperbolic). Applications of the definite integral include finding volumes of solids of revolution by the disk and shell methods, and the length of plane curves and surfaces of revolution. Integration techniques include integration by parts, partial fractions, trigonometric substitution, and use of tables and technology. Additional topics covered include improper integrals, and Taylor polynomials. The course concludes with an introduction to multivariable functions, partial derivatives, and double and triple integrals. A graphing calculator or equivalent technology is required.	Integral Calculus	5
MATH212 This course studies problems that involve finite or discrete data sets. Logic and set notation form a foundation for creating structure in data storage and information retrieval. Tools used include truth tables, methods of proof, Venn diagrams, graphs, trees, paths, and matrices. Additional topics include defining formal languages and recognizing syntactically correct sentences. Additional techniques include automata, digraphs, state transition tables and context free grammars.	Fundamentals of Discrete Mathematics	4
PHIL101 This course is designed to provide students a basic understanding of moral and ethical theories and concepts. The activities and discussions encourage students to explore and solve ethical dilemmas by identifying and applying moral and ethical theories. Students will also be encouraged to explain their reasoning from cultural, professional, and personal standpoints. A variety of ethical issues and methodologies will be explored, as students evaluate moral dilemmas in an assortment of work and life scenarios.	Introduction to Ethics	4.5
PHY211 This is a calculus-based physics course designed for science and engineering students. Topics include linear and angular motion, forces, momentum, work, energy, periodic motion and properties of materials.	Physics I - Mechanics	5
PHY212 This is a calculus-based physics course designed for science and engineering students. Topics include wave motion, sound, heat, thermodynamics, light, optics, and an introduction to the special theory of relativity.	Physics II – Heat, Light and Sound	5

PSYC102 Psychology is fundamental to every field in academic study. This course is designed to teach students a basic understanding of human behavior as well as emotional and cognitive development. Coursework incorporates terminology, principles, and foundational theories that comprise modern concepts of introductory psychology. This course is designed to teach students using practical, real-world application of course concepts within their professional, personal, and relational lives.	Introductory Psychology	4.5
	or
SOCL102 This course introduces students to the study of sociology and how it applies to careers, community, and family. Sociology examines the nature of society including the theories and principles of multi-cultural and social interactions. This course addresses how the concepts of social organization, social institutions, and social changes influence everyday life.	Introductory Sociology	4.5

UNIV104 UNIV104 is designed to provide students with a foundation for success in CTU’s undergraduate academic environment. This course introduces effective academic strategies and resources integrating them with career planning methods that can be leveraged to pursue future academic and professional goals.	Academic and Career Success	4.5
	or
HUMNELE	Humanities Elective	4.5
	Total Credit Hours:	69

Courses: Core		Credits
CE250 This course discusses the fundamentals of computer organization and architecture including concepts and principles of cloud computing and quantum computing. The covered topics include evolution of computer organization and architecture, basic assembly-level machine organization, memory system organization and architecture, computer interfacing and communication, as well as multiprocessors and parallel processing. The course also introduces the concepts of performance and the architectural support for performance enhancements.	Computer Architecture	4
CS119 This course introduces students to an introductory programming language which can demonstrate several common types of programming models such as scripting, procedural, and object-oriented programming in one language. The course covers algorithmic logic, basic declarations and statements, control structures, data and program design, basic concepts of object-orientation, and also covers how to organize multiple program components into a single programming project. Students will be required to complete several programming/scripting exercises throughout the course. The course will assist students in building up a practical foundation to study other programming languages.	Introduction of Programming	4
CS219 This course will give students the opportunity to extend their programming skills through use of Python programming language. The foundation of object-oriented and event-driven programming will be discussed and applied in this course. Topics studied will include the use of data structures, the creation of classes and objects, and the application of inheritance and polymorphism, etc. Students need to demonstrate an intermediate level competency of using Python to conduct programming tasks.	Python Programming	4
CS227 This course introduces students to the basic features of the Linux operating system and the fundamentals of Linux programming. Through several hands-on exercises and projects, students will be exposed to the Linux utility commands, file system and directories, the Linux shells, and the shell script programming. Students need to demonstrate an intermediate level competency in Linux shell programming.	Linux Programming	4
CS228 This course provides students an opportunity to learn C++, another object-oriented programming (OOP) language, through the development of a software application. Students will apply C++ language features to create classes and objects; and also apply object-oriented features such as inheritance, operator overloading, polymorphism, and templates to construct solutions. In a lab-oriented setting, students will incrementally implement and test the software application. Students need to demonstrate an intermediate level competency of using C++ to conduct programming tasks.	C++ Programming	4
CS233 This course introduces students to the principles and idiosyncrasies behind representatives of some of the different types of data structures. The course includes an examination of arrays, stacks, queues, lists, and trees. Students will study these principles through the completion of several programs.	Fundamentals of Data Structures	4
CS267 Students are introduced to classical algorithms, including searching and sorting, hashing and information retrieval, with an emphasis on their applicability to solve real-world problems. Basic techniques to analyze and design algorithms are covered. Average and asymptotic behaviors are discussed. Complexity algorithms issues, performance characteristics, and estimating their potential effectiveness in applications are explored.	Computer Algorithms	4
CS337 Parallel programming is a fundamental programming skill to construct high performance solutions for complicated computation tasks. This course introduces the basic concepts of parallel programming including parallel computer architectures, analytical modeling of parallel programs, and principles of parallel algorithm design, as well as effective techniques commonly used in coding, debugging, and testing parallel software.	Introduction to Parallel Computing	4
CS341 In this course, students are introduced to the design and the implementation concepts of modern operating systems. The topics covered include basic capabilities of operating systems, virtual memory, resource allocation and management, concurrent processes and threads, deadlock detection and prevention, protection and security, I/O and file systems, batch and interactive subsystems. Completion of the course requires the student to perform several lab exercises that investigate and exercise key operating system features.	Principles of Operating Systems	4
CS374 This course introduces students to the fundamentals of software design. Software Design consists of a set of commonly used design principles, design paradigms, design models, and design patterns. Through several working projects, students will learn how to choose proper design principles, design paradigms, design models and design patterns based upon the requirements specification. Also students will explore how to make correct adjustments to a design when some requirements have been changed.	Fundamentals of Software Design	4
CSS150 This course provides the foundation for the study of computer system security. The course centers around the ten domains comprising the Information Security Common Body of Knowledge. Topics include access control systems, telecommunications and network security, cryptography, operations security and business continuity and disaster recovery planning. Students will be exposed to security management practices as well as security architecture and models security laws, investigations and ethics.	Introduction to Computer Security	4
CSS200 This course identifies and explains technical issues involved in network security. It also covers the fundamentals of wireless networking protocols, their security issues and threats. Covered topics include cryptography applications; access control; firewalls; key management network security issues; application, e-mail and middleware security; wireless local area network technologies.	Principles of Network Security	4
EE110 This course provides the beginning engineer with fundamental knowledge and skills associated with the electrical or computer engineering professions. It will introduce common electronic components, basic circuit configurations, and laboratory instruments. Bench practices and lab reports will be introduced along with computer aided analysis.	Introduction to Engineering	4
EE221 This calculus-based course introduces analysis and relationships of voltage, current, resistance and power. Series, parallel and complex circuits are analyzed with Ohm’s Law. Kirchhoff’s voltage and current laws and network theorems are studied. Laboratory circuit construction, tests and measurements are performed using the appropriate components and equipment. Circuit simulation tools used in industry are also introduced.	Circuit Analysis I	5
EE252 EE252 is an introduction to the analysis and design of combinational and sequential digital systems. Number systems, Boolean switching algebra and Karnaugh mapping are presented as basic tools used in the design of digital systems using SSI and MSI level components. Lab activity, using TTL ICs, emphasizes the design and analysis techniques presented in lectures.	Digital Design I	5
EE312 Embedded microcontroller development processes and tools are introduced. The hardware and software architecture of a contemporary off-the-shelf microcontroller is analyzed to determine its functional role as an embedded controller in the design of a digital system. An assembly language program development and simulation system introduces students to embedded system development environments.	Embedded Microcontrollers	5
EE331 This calculus-based course covers circuit analysis related to AC and transient signals. Resistance, reactance and impedance parameters are analyzed in series, parallel and complex circuits. Trigonometrics functions, AC network theorems, transformer and passive filter theories are applied. Laboratory circuit construction, test and measurements are performed using the appropriate components and equipment. Laboratory emphasis is placed on the knowledge and use of test and measurement instruments. Circuit simulation tools used in industry are employed.	Circuit Analysis II	5
EE352 A continuation of the study of digital system design emphasizing the use of programmable logic devices and modern design methods. Contemporary logic families are reviewed along with practical design limitations. Computer simulation tools are introduced in the design process.	Digital Design II	5
EE375 This course provides a foundational knowledge for analyzing and designing electronic circuits as well as an intuitive approach to the design process. Discrete components and circuits are analyzed and designed to develop an understanding of how these components and circuits have lead to the fabrication of integrated circuits (ICs). Computer aided circuit stimulation, as well as hands-on applications of analysis and design theory, validates theoretical concepts.	Electronic Design I	5
EE486 This course explores global, economic, environmental, and societal impacts on engineering solutions. Students will be expected to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments. Students will have an opportunity to research current cultural issues in a foreign culture or country and their associated impacts on engineering solutions.	Impact of Global Issues on Design	2
EE490 This is the first course of a two-course capstone design sequence that integrates students into product design teams comprising engineering, engineering technology and logistics students. Each team is given a conceptual problem to be solved by the creation of a new product. This practicum exposes the team to current product development methods and issues beyond functionality, such as human factors, safety, engineering economics, maintenance and manufacturing. Students completing EE490 are expected to take the follow-on course, EE491 in the next term.	Product Design I	4
EE491 This is the completion of a two-course series capstone, design sequence. Student enrolled in EE491 are expected to have completed EE490 in the previous term.	Product Design II	4
IT204 This course serves as an introduction for students to acquire a foundation in current data communication and networking technologies. The course provides an introduction to the hardware, media, Ethernet, addressing, IP Configuration, components, and connections of a network. Network concepts such as network topologies, and major protocols, as well as the basic functions of network administration and operation are covered.	Fundamentals of Networking	4
MATH302 In this course methods are studies to solve differential equations and then apply them to application problems. Solution methods of specific types of first order differential equations are followed by their application to growth and decay, heating and cooling, and voltage and current response to R-L and R-C circuits. Solution methods for solving higher order linear differential equations are followed by their application to predicting the motion of masses under free and damped conditions. Analogous electronic filter and control circuits are modeled and their time domain behavior is predicted, especially for sinusoidal inputs. The final technique studied is the use of Laplace transforms to solve linear equations, and their application to second order differential equations from simple circuits.	Differential Equations	5
MATH304 This course is an introductory course in linear algebra that balances computation and theory. Topics include the solution of systems of linear equations using Gaussian and Gauss-Jordan elimination, matrices and determinants. Other topics covered are vector spaces, inner product spaces, linear transformations, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors. Also introduced is the Gram-Schmidt orthonormalization process, and Least Squares and Fourier approximations. The course is divided between lecture and hands on work in a computer lab using a symbolic math software package.	Linear Algebra	4
MATH312 An elementary coverage of statistical techniques is augmented at each step with the aid of technology for data processing and analysis in making inferences. Graphical presentation and statistical measures are studied, followed by basic probability concepts leading to binomial and normal distributions. Hypothesis testing is applied to drawing inferences for one and two population parameters. A graphing calculator or equivalent technology is required.	Principles of Probability and Statistics	4
PM220 This course emphasizes a step-by-step, hands-on approach to teach students the use of automated project tools such as Microsoft Office Project to help effectively plan, design, and manage a project schedule from start to close. Students will have the opportunity to build a complete project schedule from a given or chosen scenario, and manage project resources, plan cost management, estimate costs, and determine the project budget. During the course, students will examine the fit and appropriate use of various other tools, like Rally, Jira, and Service-Now.	Project Management Tools	4
	Select 4 credits of courses related to computer engineering	4
	Total Credit Hours:	117

Total Credit Hours: 186

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Learning Outcomes

BSCE Program Learning Outcomes (called Student Outcomes by ABET):

An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

BSCE Program Educational Objectives:

The program educational objectives of the BSCE program are to produce graduates who, after acquiring industry experience:

Are competent Computer Engineers who value system-level perspectives; provide technical expertise; engage in continuous learning and advanced education; apply theory, experimentation, and modern engineering tools; and validate systems and solutions.
Lead the computer engineering industry in their companies and society by serving as mentors, fostering effective teams, and identifying critical needs and concerns as the future evolves.
Demonstrate ethical and responsible citizenship of a diverse global society.

Faculty

Dr. Yanzhen Qu

University Dean

Dr. Yanzhen Qu is the University Dean and Professor at the College of Computer Science, Engineering and Technology at Colorado Technical University (CTU). During his tenure at CTU, Dr. Qu has taken a leadership role in modernizing the curricula of CTU’s CS, IT and Cybersecurity degree programs, ranging from Associate to Doctoral levels.

Dr. Richard Cai

Executive Program Director

Dr. Richard Cai is CTU’s Executive Program Director for the College of Computer Science, Engineering & Technology. In this role, Dr. Cai supervises curriculum design, development and revision for the degree programs offered in the college. He also plays a key role in the program assessment and accreditation.

For more faculty profiles please visit our Leadership and Faculty page.
For more information visit the College of Engineering & Computer Science.

Admission Requirements

BSCE Foundation Requirements

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCE) is built upon the expectation that students will enter the program with a solid background in mathematics. Therefore, the BSCE program requires students to have prior foundational knowledge in college-level math to be successful.

Students entering into the BSCE program will be required to successfully complete two BSCE foundation courses (MATH095 and MATH096) to measure mathematic proficiency in the following areas: Analytic College Algebra – Engineering and Analytic Trigonometry - Engineering. These foundations courses are only available for students enrolled in BSCE and BSEE programs.

If a student can show evidence of satisfying the foundation course objectives through coursework from an accredited institution, the foundation requirement can be waived.
The BSCE foundation course MATH095 must be completed and passed prior to beginning courses in the BSCE program. Students will need to complete and pass MATH096 prior to the end of the first quarter.

Students must be able to exhibit proficiency by successfully completing the foundation course with a minimum 70% passing score. If after 5 attempts (applies to each course separately) students do not pass the foundation course, students are encouraged to work with the Student Success department if they have questions regarding these foundation courses, timeframes for completion, or for alternative programs of study as needed.

Students who do not meet the BSCE foundation requirements will be withdrawn, canceled or transferred from the BSCE program to other programs such as BSCS or BSIT.

Accreditations and Alignments

The BSCE program, offered at the CTU Colorado Springs campus and the Virtual Campus, is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Computer Engineering.

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FAQs

What is a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCE) degree?

CTU’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCE) Degree Program is designed to provide knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant for pursuing potential opportunities in the workforce. This bachelor’s degree program emphasizes a strong technical background as well as analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills that may enable students to excel as professionals in a computer engineering role. Graduates of the computer engineering program will be committed to professional development and lifelong learning by engaging in professional or graduate education to stay current in their field and achieve continued growth.

What will I study in this BSCE degree program?

As you work to complete your BSCE, you will be immersed in courses where you will study these topics and much more: current data communication and networking technologies; embedded microcontroller development processes and tools; and fundamentals of computer organization and architecture.

When and where can I begin my computer engineering classes?

Courses for the BSCE start online and on our Colorado Springs campus approximately every ten weeks. Completion of the CTU admissions process will depend on how quickly you complete the steps in the CTU online application process. You may complete the application process over the phone with an advisor or you may go online. Once you’ve completed the online application, you may hear from an advisor within the following 24 hours to discuss the next steps toward starting your degree program.

How may credits are required to graduate from the bachelor's degree program?

The BSCE degree program consists of 186 credits. You may be eligible for transfer credit, which is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. CTU Fast TrackTM exams offer the opportunity to earn college credit for what you already know—allowing you to complete your degree up to 30% faster.*

* The ability to reduce time in school and/or reduce tuition towards the full cost of a degree program depends on the number of CTU Fast TrackTM exams successfully passed. Fast Track program credits are non-transferable. Not all programs are eligible for possible 30% reduction in time and money. Courses eligible are subject to change. Students should not rely on potential Fast Track savings or eligibility when making an enrollment decision.

Why should I pursue a BSCE degree at CTU?

Through innovative industry-relevant curricula and technology-enabled student-centered teaching, you will study through classroom learning and hands-on experience that aligns to industry standards and helps you work to develop skills that are applicable to the needs of the digital economy.

Is this Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering degree program accredited?

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Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering