Computer engineering is a branch of electrical engineering that integrates several hardware concepts about electronics and computer science—combining the two means so many more career opportunities and jobs.
However, with so many opportunities also comes the confusion of choosing one for yourself. A degree in computer engineering provides you with basic knowledge of everything ranging from electronics to software development. If you’re confused about where your professional calling is or where you can truly contribute as a computer engineer, here are some roles that you can consider.
Software Developer
One of the basics that you learn as an undergrad is programming. Programming is an integral part of anything computers. There are three main programming languages that computer engineers around the world use: Java, C++, and Python.
C++ is mainly used for embedded system coding, IoT, and communicating with the OS. Python is a commonly used programming language since it offers great ease of use. With its comprehensive libraries, it has proven to be very effective for high-level programming and developing environments for machine learning. Java is a great language for backend development and desktop-related applications.
Computer Engineer
There’s a high demand for computer engineers and individuals specializing in computer hardware infrastructure and software design worldwide. Many top-notch companies need computer engineers in labs and manufacturing to improve computing speeds and hardware. If you think this is your true calling, you can specialize with an online masters computer engineering degree.
Improving your qualifications will inevitably lead to better job opportunities and career growth.
Electrical Engineering
Computers are electronic devices that are made up of logic circuits. All computer engineers are equipped with basic knowledge about electronic hardware and circuitry, and going into the industry, they can build a career in the field of electrical engineering as well.
With your knowledge as a computer engineer, you can not only work on computers but also work in the telecommunication industry and on communication tools.
Systems Engineer
System engineers/administrators are the backbones behind any workplace IT setup. System engineers are responsible for maintaining the health of the existing system. Knowledge of DevOps and Automation Frameworks is a vital part of the job, all of which are part of a basic CE degree.
Computer Network Architect
Network architects are responsible for designing and operating data communication/ networking systems. Developing and maintaining an organization’s virtual infrastructure comes under their responsibility. Data flow increases over time as the company grows. A network architect is responsible for maintaining it sustainably over a shared network.
They must be good with data and understand data security while also having a strong grasp of computer networks.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning is seeping into every sphere. From our email spam filters to the advertising tools we use online, it has taken over. Big companies need intelligent systems to take a lot of load off their hands, and machine learning engineers play a vital role in adding value.
This job requires strong mathematical skills, knowledge of programming languages, machine learning, and neural network algorithms, and skills in data modelling and evaluation.
Data Engineer
Big companies are perhaps creating gigabytes of data called big data. However, if this data is not organized or brought in a decipherable format, it’s useless. Data engineers come in here. They are responsible for making sense of complex data. They extract data from their company repositories, websites, blogs, etc., for assessment. They use tools like data warehousing, ETL, cloud technologies, and their knowledge of DBMS systems to make sense of the plethora of information that they have at hand and convert it into workable evidence.
The processed data is then presented to executive members, which help them make their decision objectively.
Full Stack Software Developer
Software development is perhaps the most sought-after career in the world of computers after AI and Data Engineering. A full stack developer does both jobs as the name suggests: developing the frontend interface for users and then linking it with backend server-side and database-side programming.
Full Stack Developers must have knowledge of web and graphic designing for frontend development and scripting and code for backend development. Knowledge of Networking, Data communication, and System Design is important to become a full-stack developer.
Cyber Security Engineer
Data transmission must be seamless and not interfered with to maintain its integrity. Unfortunately, hackers try to infiltrate networking systems to steal or tamper with valuable data for malicious reasons. A cybersecurity engineer becomes necessary here to preserve and protect the integrity of valuable data.
The profession itself involves finding complex problems and careful logical thinking to solve them. A cyber security engineer evaluates the security of different networks and applications before using them. This job, along with strong analytical skills, also requires a sound knowledge of networks and security systems.
Conclusion
With a Computer Engineering degree, you have all the basic skills and knowledge to take up any of these professions. With knowledge of programming languages, you can practice and get into software development. Knowledge of data, networking, and design can help you become a cybersecurity engineer, data scientist, or maybe even a full-stack developer. If software doesn’t appeal to you, you can always opt for hardware development as an electrical engineer or computer engineer. The options are limitless for you, with the world becoming increasingly tech-savvy. All you have to do is choose.
