BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER ENGINEERING

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers a full-time academic program leading to a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering in 4 years or a dual major in Electrical and Computer Engineering in 4.5 years.

A student may also be able to obtain a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Science degree in Computer Engineering or Cybersecurity in 5 years.

What is Computer Engineering?

Computer engineers blend theories from computer science and applications from electrical engineering to develop new hardware and software for computer systems. These engineers optimize and advance the core technologies behind the Internet, wireless communications and mobile computing.

Why Villanova?

What makes Villanova’s Electrical and Computer Engineering department unique is our commitment to community:

• Between students who learn teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills together during classes and in clubs
• With faculty who value your success and take the time to get to know you—by name
• In the world outside of Villanova, where we engage in service learning trips, study abroad experiences and STEM outreach programs
• Through Nova Nation whose alumni are there to mentor, guide and support our students during their time here and after they graduate

Areas of Study

All undergraduates in Computer Engineering study the following:

• C and C++ programming languages
• Efficient computer algorithms
• Computer hardware and architectures
• Computer networks
• Computer interfacing
• Digital system design
• Microprocessor systems

Areas of specialization include:

• Cybersecurity
• Microcontrollers
• Applied Machine Learning
  
• Post-Quantum Computing
  
• Software engineering

Related minors—including Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity,  Mechatronics and Humanitarian Engineering—offer an opportunity for more in-depth study.

Real-World Opportunities

Every student completes a senior capstone design project, which covers three semesters and involves student teams working on a variety of real-world problems, many of which are sponsored by industry partners. You can also speak with your advisor about research opportunities with faculty.

Recent undergraduate projects include:

• FPGA implementation of lightweight post-quantum cryptography
• Virtural reality training system for soccer goalies
• Design of an e-commerce trading platform for Galapagos Islands
• Agriculture software app for rural Guatemala

After Earning Your Degree

A Computer Engineering degree will prepare you for several of U.S. News & World Report’s top 25 STEM jobs.

In 2020, 17% of Villanova Computer Engineering graduates continued their education after graduation. Of those who entered the job market, 80% found opportunities in the web or software industry.

Where Are They Now?

2020 graduates from Villanova’s Electrical and Computer Engineering program are working in a number of interesting fields. Here is just a sampling: