Computer Engineering Technology

About the computer engineering technology major

Computer engineering technology students learn to develop and to implement computer applications used every day. From microprocessors to memory systems, software, and PCs—computers have revolutionized the way we live and work. Your knowledge can influence this everyday technology: handheld devices, networks, medical equipment, smartphones, robotics, and more. An engineering technology degree allows you to use new and emerging technology to install, service, and maintain software and hardware, as well as solve problems as part of a larger project.

Skills and abilities this major develops: troubleshooting; problem solving; math skills; application and design of hardware; conducting and interpreting experiments; utilizing systems and software programs; and installing, servicing, testing, repairing and maintaining computer systems.

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IUPUI’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Student organizations

ET has many student organizations, which are a great way to build your skills, network, and grow as a professional.

Professional work experience

Grow your skills through internships, co-op, or part-time jobs.

Study abroad

ET has many program-specific study abroad opportunities—a great way to gain cultural competency and grow your skills.

Opportunities after graduation

Employment of computer network engineers is projected to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 11,800 openings for computer network engineers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as retirement (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022).

According to the IUPUI First Destination Survey in 2021, the average starting salary for graduates from the School of Engineering and Technology with a bachelor's degree was $60,383, and the median was $60,320.

The national median annual salary for computer network engineers was $120,520 in 2021 (Occupational Outlook Handbook).

(This section is intended for informational purposes, not prediction of actual salary.)

Many computer engineering technology graduates continue their learning over the course of their careers to keep up with rapid advances in technology. They often obtain graduate degrees in the following areas:

Business
Engineering
Information technology

Quick facts

Sample coursework

Electrical machines
Electronics circuit analysis
Emerging information, communications, and technologies
Industrial control
Introduction to microprocessors
Java programming

Possible careers

Computer network specialist
Computer service technician
Electrical/electronic tech
Electronic equipment representative
Security manager

Where could I work?

Cummins
Eli Lilly and Company
IBM
RPM Technologies
U.S. Navy

Complementing interests

RRealistic

IInvestigative

CConventional

Get your interest code

Where to get more information

Purdue School of Engineering and Technology

Association for Computing Machinery

International Association of Science and Technology for Development

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Cluster

This major belongs to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) cluster. The STEM cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in the sciences, technology, engineering, informatics, and computing. The STEM cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools.

Learn about the STEM cluster

Learn about other clusters

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