Learn Computer Engineering: The Best Courses and Resources

Computer engineering is a field that won’t be going away anytime soon and deciding you want to learn computer engineering is a great step forward in your tech career. 

You have come to the best place to get all of the advice you need to learn computer engineering. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know, from learning what computer engineering jobs are available to some of the best computer engineering courses available.

What Is Computer Engineering?

Computer engineering is essentially the melting pot where computer science and engineering come together. This ever-growing field encompasses everything from designing to developing computer systems and devices.

There are two different branches of computer engineering: hardware engineering and software engineering. Those who follow the path of hardware engineering spend their time working with the physical parts of a computer. Whereas software engineers spend their time designing and developing various computer software applications.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a computer engineer is around $117,000 per year. Despite predictions of slower growth in the industry over the next decade, this fantastic salary provides encouragement that there is still great potential. If you work hard and persist, you will be able to make a six-figure salary in no time.

What Jobs Use Computer Engineering Skills?

Unsurprisingly, there are many different job positions you can apply for with computer engineer skills. From becoming a software engineer or developer to becoming a web developer, you are sure to find a career suitable for you.

• Hardware Engineer. As a hardware engineer, you can immerse yourself in hands-on computer engineering work. Hardware engineers focus on the physical components of computers, and typically design, fix, and build them.
  
  
• Software Developer. Software developers are focused on the development and implementation of computer software. This is a great way to apply your computer engineering skills with less hands-on, more detail-oriented work.
  
  
• Computer Programmer. Working as a computer programmer, you can learn firsthand what the difference between coding and programming really is. This is a great way to work behind the scenes with your computer engineering skills.
  
  
• Web Developer. With the right background of computer engineering skills under your belt, you can easily become a web developer. As a web developer, you can choose to work for a company and earn a fixed salary or explore freelance web development and its salary.
  
  

Steps to Learn Computer Engineering

While learning any new subject or undertaking a new area of study can be intimidating at times, learning computer engineering can be quite simple. Though you will still have to put in some time and effort, following these five steps will make your course of study much easier.

1. Take Independent Courses

The first step we recommend taking when trying to learn computer engineering is to enroll in independent courses. There are dozens of entry-level courses related to computer engineering available online, where you can study from the comfort of your own home. 

By choosing to enroll and complete a few classes at the beginning of your learning journey, you can easily familiarize yourself with basic computer programming, software engineering, and software system concepts.

2. Earn an Undergraduate Degree

Most computer engineering careers will require you to possess at least an undergraduate degree, and commonly a graduate degree as well. So, not only is an undergraduate degree a fantastic way to continue learning computer engineering, but it is also the key to beginning a successful career. Most undergraduate degree programs will teach you the fundamentals of computer engineering and everything you need to know to begin a career in the field.

3. Earn a Graduate Degree

After you have earned an undergraduate degree, take some time to enjoy your achievement. When you are ready to continue learning, we strongly recommend enrolling in a graduate degree program. Not only will this allow you to delve deeper into more complex computer engineering topics, but it will also aid you in advancing your career. 

4. Become Specialized

Though not totally necessary, deciding to become specialized in a few different areas of computer engineering is a great choice for both your education and your career. Whether you choose to specialize in embedded systems design or microprocessor design, you are practically guaranteed to find employment with a specialization or two.

5. Apply for Certification

If you choose to continue your computer engineering education after becoming specialized, you will want to look into certifications. There are a plethora of computer engineering certifications available, and having even one will improve your employability. By choosing to earn certifications, you are also choosing to continue learning and advancing your education in more complex computer engineering issues.

The Best Courses to Learn Computer Engineering

While it can be tricky to find the best computer engineering courses, you are in luck. We have gathered all of the best computer engineering courses, degree programs, and other related online classes to help you become a computer engineer.

Computers – STEM Essentials

Since engineering is one of the four STEM subjects, it makes sense that a computer engineering student could learn from a STEM essentials class. This Udemy course is currently offered for $12.99, though the price varies. In this course, you will cover all of the fundamentals of computers and how they interact with STEM studies and jobs.

Carnegie Mellon University – BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering

For those looking to pursue a degree, Carnegie Mellon University offers a highly rated Bachelor of Science (BS) in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This program is offered as an on-campus course at the college campus located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Students will have the opportunity to study different areas of electrical and computer engineering, and upon graduation will become strong candidates for employment.

Intro to Computer Engineering

For brand-new computer engineering students, Northwestern University offers this awesome introductory class. This course is offered on-campus during all three trimesters and is taught by highly experienced faculty. By the end of this course, you will have a great knowledge foundation and be ready to advance your education in computer engineering.

Cyber Security Fundamentals

As a part of Iowa State University’s various computer engineering programs, you can enroll in this cybersecurity fundamentals course. While this course may seem targeted to those pursuing a career in cyber security, it is a fantastic way for you to begin learning about computer and network infrastructures. Learning how to secure and maintain the security of both computers and networks is essential for becoming a good computer engineer.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology – ECS Master Program

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, more often known as MIT, offers an awesome and prestigious engineering in computer science program. This program requires 162 credit hours to be completed in order to graduate. You will also need to complete a thesis. While this program may not be specifically called a computer engineering program, it is a fantastic way to earn a prestigious and quality education.

Programming Fundamentals

At the University of Florida, you can enroll in quite a few courses related to computer engineering. We recommend checking out Programming Fundamentals 1 & 2. 

These are two subsequent courses designed to help you gain your bearings in the world of computer science. Considered a beginner-level course, you will learn about the basics of computer science, object-oriented programming, and basic data concepts.

How to Build a Computer: A Beginner’s Guide

One thing all good computer engineers should know is how computers work. By taking this beginner’s course on how to build a computer, you will learn not only how to actually build your own computer, but also how a computer works and how each individual part works with the others. This course is currently offered by Udemy for $49.99, but as Udemy users likely know, this is subject to change.

Computer Hardware, Operating Systems, and Networking

A computer engineer rarely has to explain if they work with hardware or software, as their job is all-encompassing. To do this job, you are expected to have a good understanding of and ability to work with both. 

That’s why this Udemy course is an awesome choice for future computer engineers. By learning all about computer hardware, computer networks, computer systems, and network systems, you are giving yourself the foundation needed to succeed in your career.

University of California at Berkeley – Master of Engineering

Another great degree program you can enroll in is the University of California at Berkeley’s master of engineering program. Though you will need to first complete a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a similar background in tech, this master’s program is fantastic. 

You can choose between five different specializations within the computer engineering track. The options are data science and systems, physical electronics and integrated circuits, robotics and embedded software, signal processing and communications, and visual computing and computer graphics.

Georgia Tech – BS in Computer Engineering

Georgia Tech provides another awesome option for a BS in computer engineering degree program. In this program, you will find an emphasis put on digital design, computer architecture, computer networks, and computer applications. Earning this degree will provide you with a well-rounded education and the skills necessary to easily find employment upon graduating. 

Digital Computer Electronic Engineering Circuit Simulations

This Udemy course, offered for $19.99 at the time of writing, will teach you all about computers and other electronic systems and how they work. While, on its own, this course will not prepare you to become a computer engineer, it will provide you with crucial information and the skills needed for a temporary job as a computer repair technician while you pursue a further career as a computer engineer.

Why Learn Computer Engineering?

Even though the field of computer engineering is growing at a slower rate than many other professions, it is still a field we recommend learning. If you are able to master computer engineering, you can set yourself up for a six-figure salary, doing work you love. 

When all is said and done, we highly recommend you take the leap and pursue a career in computer engineering.