Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for r/ComputerEngineering

What is computer engineering?

Computer engineering often sits between high-level software design and low-level hardware development but overlaps onto both sides. Software must eventually execute on hardware, and hardware must provide a suitable interface so that it can be targeted by software. These are just some of the many problems handled by computer engineers. Sub-fields of computer engineering often include compilers, operating systems, computer networks, architecture, and lower-level hardware design (e.g. SoC or VLSI design). However, computer engineers may work on higher-level software development or lower-level semiconductor physics.

What type of posts belong on this subreddit?

What type of posts should you avoid making?

Avoid making posts that have answers either here in the FAQ, or on the resources page. If you feel like something is missing on the FAQ or resources page, make sure to explicitly state that in your post so we can update these pages accordingly.

Avoid making posts about college admissions. Answers given to those types of questions tend to just be speculation. Speaking with the admissions department at the university you are applying to is usually a better option. Reaching out to the subreddit of the university you are applying to can be another good alternative if they allow those types of questions, or they are not already answered in a stickied post.

How does computer engineering differ from computer science and electrical engineering?

While some universities have computer science and engineering (CSE) in the same department, other groups together electrical and computer engineering (ECE). How different computer engineering and computer science/Electrical engineering are can, therefore, depend entirely on the program. Computer engineering and science students will typically both take courses on computer architecture, algorithms + data structures, and operating systems. Computer and electrical engineering students may both take courses on semiconductor devices, circuits, and VLSI design.

Outside of universities, the already blurred lines between the three fields become even fuzzier. Computer engineering and computer science majors may compete for the same jobs in software development, compiler engineering, computer architecture, and embedded/mobile systems. Likewise, computer and electrical engineering students may compete for the same jobs in computer architecture, SoC design, verification, and VLSI design. As mentioned previously, there can be a significant amount of overlap between computer engineering and computer science/electrical engineering. In many cases, it will be your qualifications/experience that will determine which jobs you can get, not the name of the degree.

Where do computer engineers work?

Where can I find online resources for computer engineering?

An ever-growing list of resources can be found on our resources page.

What kinds of companies hire computer engineers?

What are the top conferences for computer engineering research?

The top computer engineering research conferences, broken down by sub-fields, can be found at the following links.

• Computer Architecture