Computer Engineering: 5 Steps to Becoming a Computer Engineer
Are you interested in computer technologies? Would you like to develop and maintain computer programs and applications? Continue reading for information on how to become a computer engineer. Schools offering Computer Engineering degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
What is a Computer Engineer?
Computer engineers, who are also called computer software engineers, are trained professionals who work with software applications and systems software. As a computer engineer, you'll design and maintain computer programs that assist with functional tasks. You may also design, maintain and expand computer programs that run the overall computer system for a company.
Step 1: Get Trained
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that a bachelor's degree is usually the basic requirement for entry-level computer engineering jobs; however, depending on the job, a master's degree may be preferred (www.bls.gov). Degree programs consistent with this vocation include computer science, computer information systems, software engineering and other related disciplines.
At the bachelor's level, depending on your technology major, your curriculum may include coursework in systems analysis, data structures, software design and programming languages. Your graduate studies will consist of advanced training on subject matter within your chosen curriculum, which may include enterprise architecture, software quality and testing, research and artificial intelligence.
Step 2: Consider Certification
Certification is not required but is a recommended form of professional credentialing. You might obtain certification through professional trade organizations, such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Additionally, you may obtain certification in specific software programs through the vendors that distribute them. For example, if you hold certification in Microsoft Windows, you may have greater chances of gaining employment with a company that uses this operating system.
Step 3: Acquire Work Experience
As a computer engineer, you may work for many different types of organizations. You could be employed by technology companies that design and implement products, such as operating systems, middleware, computer games and utility applications. You might also work for non-technology companies that use computer technologies for their operations, such as for billing, payroll and inventory. According to the BLS, job opportunities for computer software engineers were expected to grow by 21% between 2008 and 2018. In 2010, the median salary for computer engineers who specialize in software applications was $87,790, while those who specialize in systems software was $94,180.
Step 4: Join a Trade Association
Trade associations provide members with various benefits, such as continuing education opportunities, professional networking resources and industry updates. Some of the trade organizations you might join include the Software & Information Industry Association, the International Association for Computer Information Systems and the IEEE.
Step 5: Stay Current
Staying current on new technologies, procedures and industry initiatives is important to your daily activities. Industry updates and continuing education programs may be provided by employers, but is also available through trade associations, colleges and software vendors. Such programs may be available in the form of courses, conferences and professional development seminars.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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