Computer engineering is an exciting and dynamic field. If you want to be part of it, there are four schools you can choose to attend. Two of these schools offer Associate’s degrees, and all four schools offer Bachelor’s degrees. All four schools have Master’s degree programs and PhD opportunities.
An Associate’s degree in computer engineering contains lower-level engineering courses. A Bachelor’s degree is typically required for licensure. An Associate’s degree contains 60 credits, which usually takes two years to complete. You need about 4 to 5 years to earn a Bachelor’s degree, which includes 120 credits.
Some of the courses you may take as an undergraduate student include Computer Architecture, Software Engineering, and Computer Organization.
Earning a Master’s degree or PhD in this field can prepare you for higher level work in research or teaching. Some of the courses you may take include Advanced Coding Theory, Microprocessor Design, and Robotics Engineering. You need at least two years to earn a Master’s degree, and a PhD takes an average of seven years.
In Alabama, the average cost of tuition is $5000 for residents and $12,000 for non-residents. However, tuition rates vary significantly between schools. Tuition rates tend to be lower for two-year colleges and public colleges.
There are many scholarships you can apply for as an engineering student. One of these is the Jack L. Carr Scholarship, which awards $1500 to students on an annual basis. Another opportunity is the Engineering Council of Birmingham Scholarship, which awards scholarships of up to $1500.
Before you can begin working as an engineer in Alabama, you have to get your license from the Alabama State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. The first step is filling out an application, at which point you receive an exam date. After you successfully pass your required exam, you are awarded your license. Your engineering license must be renewed by December 31 of every year in order to stay current.