Computer engineers analyze, design, and evaluate computer systems, both hardware and software. They might work on system such as a flexible manufacturing system or a “smart" device or instrument. Computer engineers often find themselves focusing on problems or challenges which result in new "state of the art" Products, which integrate computer capabilities. They work on the design, planning, development, testing, and even the supervision of manufacturing of computer hardware -- including everything from chips to device controllers.It is primarily software engineers who focus on creating the software systems used by individuals and businesses, but computer engineers may also design and develop some software applications.

Specific projects might include shared channel wireless networks, adaptive resource management in dynamic distributed systems including mobile systems, improving the quality of service in mobile and ATM environments, a platform for adaptive computing and seamless memory over heterogeneous wireless networks, and reliable and efficient communication on a fast Ethernet cluster.

Computer engineers working in this area focus on enhancing the speed, reliability, and performance of systems, by means of computer technology - for example, consumer products, and business and industrial machines. Most functions of the modern automobile are controlled by embedded microprocessors. Embedded systems are currently being developed that coordinate systems such as automated vehicles and equipment to conduct search and rescue, automated transportation systems, and human-robot coordination to repair equipment in space.

The current program has been designed to support both academic and professional interests. The core courses provide the skills necessary for a computer engineer to design develop and implement computer systems and networks. The curricula emphasize the areas of computer hardware design, communication theory and computer networks, system software, engineering and information technology.

The Computer Engineering Department is currently equipped with the necessary laboratories for digital electronics, microprocessor testing and applications, PC computing facilities, a RISC/UNIX computing machine and a moderate library.