Computer Engineering Technology
What is Computer Engineering Technology?
The bachelor of science in computer engineering technology (CET) program combines the disciplines of electrical engineering technology and computer science. This combination sets it apart from programs in computer science. After building upon a foundation of fundamental courses in electrical technology and programming, the curriculum offers more intensive instruction in computer applications such as networking data communications and hardware interfacing. The focus is on distributed systems and computer-based instruments that operate over computer networks. All technical courses have laboratory components, giving hands-on experience. The program incorporates six quarters of cooperative education (co-op) experience, and a capstone course in the form of a senior design project is required.
Success Factors
Successful computer engineering technologists have excellent skills in computer hardware and software, networking and programming. Typically, they are interested in software engineering, network administration, wireless communication and programming control systems in industry -- all of which are important proficiencies required of CETs.
Career Possibilities
Graduates in this field are among the most highly sought in industry and business. This demand is predicted to continue for the foreseeable future. Graduates in computer engineering technology design, install and manage networks of computers, administer personal computer installations, prepare presentations, write technical documents and design and maintain computer-controlled instrumentation. Professionals in this field understand both the hardware and software aspects of computer connectivity and control. They design microcontroller systems, manage and support computer networks and computer-based manufacturing processes.
As more commerce takes place over the internet, computers will be increasingly used to remotely monitor and control industrial processes. People who design and implement such systems must understand the electrical aspects involved -- they must be more than software programmers and users. Recent employers of UC graduates include: Accenture, Bridge Worldwide, Duke Energy, E-Technologies Group, General Electric, Hewlett-Packard, A & A Inc., AK Steel, Procter & Gamble, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Honeywell Corporation, U.S. Department of Defense contractors and the Kroger Co.
Majoring in Computer Engineering Technology
UC’s CET program is a bachelor’s degree program designed to be completed in five years. Course work toward the degree encompasses:
- General studies provide a strong foundation in the liberal arts. Written and oral communication and overall breadth of knowledge in ethics, world politics, geography, history and social sciences are essential parts of general education classes.
- Foundational studies integrate mathematics, physics, technical writing, speech and basic computer skills.
- Concentrated study in the major includes software engineering, microprocessor programming and interfacing, computer architecture, operating systems, high-level language programming, computer networking/wireless communications, digital/analog circuit design for computer I/O systems, electrical/electronics equipment/sensors and industrial programming.
Curriculum
This curriculum information is intended as a general information guide for students considering enrollment in this program. These online tools are designed to assist you, but are not a substitute for planning with an academic or faculty advisor.
If you are currently confirmed or enrolled, you can check your degree requirements online. If you are considering transferring to this major from another school, use u.select to see how credits you have earned will transfer to UC. See course descriptions by college.
This curriculum information is intended as a general information guide for students considering enrollment in this program. These online tools are designed to assist you, but are not a substitute for planning with an academic or faculty advisor.
If you are currently confirmed or enrolled, you can check your degree requirements online. If you are considering transferring to this major from another school use the Course Applicability System (CAS) to see how credits you have earned will apply to this major at UC. For course descriptions by college, click here.
Please visit http://www.ceas.uc.edu/current_students/curriculum_information/computer_engineeringtechnology.html for up to date curriculum information.
UC Advantages and Special Opportunities
Co-op (cooperative education) is a learning experience that enables students to alternate academic studies with paid, on-the-job training. The co-op program is required for all full-time students who wish to receive the bachelor of science degree in computer engineering technology. Co-op students participate in a year-round schedule. Each work session is 13 weeks long. Alternating 13-week sessions continue until the fifth and final year, in which all students return to school.
Special Programs
Honors Program
The University of Cincinnati honors program offers small, interactive classes that allow students to receive personalized instruction and to learn more effectively. The honors program enriches the educational experience of top students through course work and out-of-class experiences. Special topics courses allow honors students to broaden their intellectual horizons regardless of the discipline in which they are majoring. Students may also earn honors credit through experiential learning. Incoming freshmen are eligible to be invited to participate.
Student Organizations
To help students develop professionally and showcase leadership talents, many professional and social organizations exist in the college.
Admission Requirements
Students seeking admission to the CET bachelor's degree program must:
1. Have an associate degree in engineering technology (or the equivalent), or be a graduate of an accredited high school with the following units:
College-prep English (4 units)
College-prep mathematics (3 units)
Physics (1 unit)
Chemistry (1 unit)
Social science (2 units)
Foreign language (2 units)
Fine arts (1 unit)
Additional units of above (2 units)
2. Average scores of 1110 composite SAT (with strong math component) or 24 math on the ACT college entrance examination were reported last year.
Transferring to UC Requirements
Transfer students must be in good standing according to standards of the college from which they wish to transfer and must have a minimum 2.5 grade point average.
Changing Majors within UC Requirements
Students changing majors from other programs or colleges within UC will be considered based on the same criteria as outside transfers.
Application Deadlines
Applications should be filed as early in the year as possible. Suggested filing dates are:
Fall quarter: previous October -- June 1 (Some programs may close by December 15 for the following fall.)
Winter quarter: October 1 -- November 15
Spring quarter: October 1 -- February 1
Summer quarter: October 1 -- May 1
Accreditation
The University of Cincinnati is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The computer engineering technology program is accredited by the TAC Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD, 21202-4012, 410-374-7700.
