Computer engineers design computers and/or computer systems, hardware and software to control sensors, embedded devices and manufacturing or industrial plants. This field of engineering not only focuses on how computer systems themselves work, but how they integrate into the larger picture. Computer engineers can choose to work in many areas such as networking, control and automation, multimedia, image processing, machine vision and intelligent systems.

They work across a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, medical, transport, telecommunication, government, mining and finance, any industry which requires personnel with expertise in the design and applications of computer hardware, especially the interfacing of computers with other machinery.

This degree

You will study a common first year allowing you to learn more about engineering and its different fields before deciding which discipline to study. The common first year provides you with sound fundamentals in mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, computing, engineering science and communication, mechanics, materials and fluids. You then focus on your chosen major study from second year.

Your degree includes a 12-week hands-on industry placement. You may gain credit for relevant work experience, either in Australia or overseas, by participating in our Professional Options Program.

Engineers work in a variety of industries, for example: construction, mining, resources, aeronautical, electronics, engineering management, telecommunications, power generation and distribution, renewable energy, aerospace, water resource management, robotics and manufacturing, railroad and shipbuilding.

What you will study

In the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Computer Engineering you will study electrical engineering, software design and hardware-software integration, from the development of super computers to circuit design. You will acquire specialist expertise in the fields of computer architecture and software design to combine hardware and software solutions to solve practical problems.

After completing two years of physics, maths, computer programming, circuit theory and general engineering-based subjects, the later years of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Computer Engineering focus on the development of high level computer engineering capabilities including:

• Hardware design
• Software techniques
• Signal processing
• Multimedia control systems and robotics

From second year you also have the option to complete a double major, combining two engineering disciplines. Available double major combinations include:

• Computer Engineering and Telecommunications Engineering
• Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering

• Biomedical Engineer
• Computer Architect
• Computer Systems Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Construction Manager
• Electronics Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Environmental Engineer
• Geotechnical Engineer
• Materials Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Metallurgist
• Mining Engineer
• Network Engineer 
• Production Engineer
• Security Engineer
• Software Engineer
• Structural Engineer
• Systems Analyst
• Telecommunications Engineer
• Transport Engineer
• Water Quality Manager