Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Degree
Earn your bachelor’s in computer engineering and gain the skills to step into a diverse array of careers. This program teaches and assesses competency in operating systems, circuits, signals, communications, algorithms and data structures, computer architecture and controls. If you enjoy math, sciences and computers, a bachelor’s in computer engineering may be right for you. Grand Canyon University’s bachelor’s in computer engineering degree is ideal for students who seek career versatility in an evolving field.
What Is a Computer Engineering Degree From GCU?
The bachelor’s in computer engineering degree from GCU can provide you the vital skills and competencies you need for career success. GCU offers a quality education at an affordable price. With the help of our expert faculty, you can gain the hands-on skills you need to stand out as a career candidate.
Our collaborative, innovative environment supports active learning in lab and lecture courses. As a campus student, you will have access to our state-of-the-art labs. The bachelor’s in computer engineering degree expands academic knowledge while providing relevant hands-on experience. Students will learn to work as teams and spur each other on toward innovation and excellence in computer engineering, electronics, project engineering and beyond.
Computer Engineering at a Glance
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Computer engineering is a specific field of engineering that combines electrical engineering and computer science. The duties of a computer engineer will vary based on the specialization and skills of the individual. However, most computer engineers are well versed in operating systems, electronics, digital device design, circuits and embedded systems. Computer engineers consider networks, security, hardware and software development as part of their ongoing tasks.
Bachelor's in Computer Engineering FAQs
Before deciding on a bachelor’s in computer engineering degree, you may have some questions. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about the computer engineering field and degree program at GCU. If you still have questions, fill out the Request Info field on the right and an admissions counselor will contact you shortly.
An additional 1,100 jobs are expected to be added to the market from 2019-2029 for computer hardware engineers alone.1 Engineers are needed wherever new products and technology are developed, making it an in-demand job across many fields.
A degree in computer engineering is the first step to becoming a computer engineer, though some employers may accept applicants with a degree in electrical engineering or similar. The degree should be from an accredited school. You will need strong math and science skills and a portfolio of projects to show employers your knowledge of programming.2
Due to the nature of the job, strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills are a must. As computer engineers often communicate issues or suggestions to clients, communications skills are also essential.
A computer engineering program will have core classes in math and science such as:
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Calculus
- Differential Equations
- Linear Algebra
However, for a well-rounded education, general education credits will also be necessary, such as English and Christian worldview.
GCU’s bachelor’s in computer engineering degree can support your passion for engineering, innovation and computer hardware design. Request information today and prepare for your future career as a computer engineer.
1Retrieved from The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer Hardware Engineers in July 2021
2Retrieved from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, How to Become a Computer Hardware Engineer in July 2021
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-112, Success in Science, Engineering and Technology & Lab: 4
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Required General Education Courses
Course Description
This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-113 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of density, classification of chemical reactions, the gas laws, determination of enthalpy change using calorimetry, and determination of empirical formula. Co-Requisite: CHM-113.
Course Description
This course is founded in the application of mathematics to engineering problems and processes. The course begins with foundations in algebraic manipulation, progresses into trigonometric models, complex numbers, signal processing, introduction to matrices and system equations, differentiation and integration, and differential equations all applied to the solution to engineering problems. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162L.
Course Description
The engineering math labs are the hands on applications of the foundational mathematics concepts applied to engineering problems in the engineering math course. The labs will apply algebra, trigonometry, matrices, differential and integral calculus, and differential equations to various engineering problems. Prerequisite: MAT-154. Co-Requisite: ESG-162.
Course Description
This course introduces the fundamentals of the engineering design methodology and the product development process.. Students will learn the importance of listening to the voice of the customer and how to incorporate those desires into a product using design for X principles. Students will develop verification and validation tests and learn how those become formalized qualification or acceptance processes. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course introduces students to engineering documentation, tolerances, and standards. Typical fabrication tools common in a machine shop and the impact those tools have on design details will be covered. The students will work on several multi-disciplined projects through the semester. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L. Co-Requisites: ESG-210 and ESG-251.
Course Description
This course is a calculus-based study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisites: MAT-261, or ESG-162 and ESG-162L. Co-Requisite: MAT-262, PHY-121L.
Course Description
This calculus-based course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-121 lecture course. Students are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisites: MAT-261, or ESG-162 and ESG-162L. Co-Requisite: MAT-262, PHY-121.
Course Description
This course covers the basics of managing an engineering project, including: project planning, initiating of the project, implementation of the project plan, and completion of the project. Students will learn how to pitch their idea for funding, both in written form and in oral form, as well as how to prepare a formal written funding proposal. The class will cover the basics of engineering economics and introduce how this topic is covered on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Throughout the semester, the students will use the management and economic concepts learned to develop a portfolio and proposal for a capstone project to be completed in the following year. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: ESG-210 and ESG-220.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the principles of computer engineering design. Students will learn to produce computer engineering designs that consider system requirements, engineering standards, and regulatory compliance. Students will apply engineering sciences, economics, and standards to design digital devices, circuits, and systems to solve real-world problems. Hands-on activities focus on the design and integration of different subsystems. Prerequisite: CEE-312. Co-Requisite: ESG-451.
Course Description
This project-based course will consolidate the student’s knowledge of the computer engineering design process, from concept to manufacturing. It provides depth to the design process that enables students to contribute to the solution of real-world engineering problems. Prerequisite: CEE-473.
Core Courses
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of elementary calculus and its application to real-world problems. Topics include differentiation, optimization, and integration. Software is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-261 or ESG-162/162L.
Course Description
This is the second course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing fundamentals and applications of nuclear chemistry and organic chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the basics of computer programming. Students will learn to develop algorithms to solve engineering problems, and the implementation of those algorithms in the C language. This course will include using C program for embedded devices for interacting with the world around them. Topics include assembly language, C programming language, and real time programming. MATLAB will be taught in the course to introduce students to rapid development tools and allow for flexibility in prototyping. Concepts of Object Oriented (OO) programming will be included in the MATLAB section of this course. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts discussed in lecture and on gaining initial exposure to common microcontrollers. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L or MAT-261.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the basics of computer-aided design. Students will learn to produce great designs using computer-aided design software. Topics include 2-D and 3-D design and modeling, mechanical tolerances, and electrical and mechanical design integration. Hands-on activities focus on the design and integration of different subsystems, electrical and mechanical. Prerequisites: ESG-162 and ESG-162L.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of integral, multivariable, and vector calculus and its application to real-world problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.
Course Description
This course focus is on the analysis of two- and three-dimensional forces on a system in an equilibrium (static) state. Further, it discusses real world applications for static analyses via simple trusses, frames, machines, and beams. Additional topics covered include properties of areas, second moments, internal forces in beams, laws of friction, and static simulation in Solidworks. Prerequisite: PHY-121, PHY-121L, ESG-251.
Course Description
This course provides students with a strong foundation in core areas of electrical engineering. Students will learn the main ideas of circuits and their enabling role in electrical engineering components, devices, and systems. The course offers in-depth coverage of AC & DC circuits, circuit analysis, filters, impedance, power transfer, applications of Laplace transforms, and op-amps. Prerequisites: MAT-262, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122, PHY-122L, EEE-202L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of EEE-202 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities focus problem solving using scientific computation tools, simulations, and various programming languages. Prerequisites: MAT-262, PHY-121 and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122, PHY-122L, EEE-202.
Course Description
This course focuses on solutions and qualitative study of linear systems of ordinary differential equations, and on the analysis of classical partial differential equations. Topics include first- and second-order equations; series solutions; Laplace transform solutions; higher order equations; Fourier series; second-order partial differential equations. Boundary value problems, electrostatics, and quantum mechanics provide the main context in this course. Prerequisite: MAT-253 or MAT-264.
Course Description
This calculus-based course is the second in a 1-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. The sequence of topics includes an introduction to electric and magnetic fields. This is followed by the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave and topics associated with geometric optics. The final topic discussed in the course is quantum mechanics. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-122 lecture course. Some of the topics students understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.
Course Description
This project-based course will cover the design and implementation of a microcontroller embedded system. Students will learn embedded system architecture, assembly language programming, interfacing to peripherals, interrupt handling, and debugging/troubleshooting techniques and tools. Prerequisite: ESG-111.
Course Description
This class will introduce statistical process control and teach proper engineering experimental design and analysis techniques. Concepts introduced will include process variability, statistical controls, factorial, blocking and confounding as applied to engineering problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.
Course Description
Apply the stochastic process to the modeling and solution of the engineering problems. The course introduces the students to modeling, quantification, and analysis of uncertainty in engineering problems; all building into an introduction to Markov chains, random walks, and Galton-Watson tree and their applications in engineering. Prerequisite: MAT-364.
Course Description
This course is intended primarily for mathematics, science, and engineering students. The goal of the course is to impart the concepts and techniques of modern linear algebra (over the real scalar field) with a significant level of rigor. Students write clearly about the concepts of linear algebra (definitions, counterexamples, simple proofs), and apply theory to examples. The course emphasizes the practical nature of solutions to linear algebra problems. Students implement some of these solutions, where appropriate, as computer programs. Prerequisite: MAT-264 or MAT-253
Course Description
This class will cover the design and application of digital logic circuits, including combination and sequential logic. Students will analyze, design, verify, and test logic circuits as applied to solve engineering problems. The class will cover a range of mathematical objects, algorithms, number theory, and counting. Prerequisites: MAT-262 and EEE-212.
Course Description
This course bridges theoretical mathematical foundations and practical implementation of circuits and computer algorithms. The course presents applications in engineering, physics, feedback and control, communications, and signal processing. Topics covered include: CT and DT signals and systems, linearity, time-invariant systems, causality, transient and steady state responses, Fourier transforms, Laplace transforms, Z transforms, sampling, state variables, and feedback systems. Prerequisites: MAT-364, EEE-202 and EEE-202L. Co-Requisite: MAT-345, EEE-213L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of EEE-213 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities focus problem solving using scientific computation tools, and various programming languages. In particular, students work on system simulation and real-time signal processing. Prerequisites: MAT-364, EEE-202 and EEE-202L. Co-Requisite: MAT-345, EEE-213.
Course Description
This course introduces students to data structures and algorithms. Students will learn the computational procedures for processing input data to obtain the desired output, including algorithm design, testing, and troubleshooting. Students will learn how to implement algorithms and numerical methods in a programming language. Prerequisite: EEE-212.
Course Description
This course presents the fundamentals of analog and digital control systems. Analysis and design of linear control systems using physical system models. Analysis and control of nonlinear systems are introduced. Hands-on activities focus on the design, assembly and testing of electronic control systems. Prerequisites: EEE-213 and EEE-213L.
Course Description
This course combines hardware and firmware design aspects of embedded systems. Students will learn how to design an embedded system from the ground up, applying fundamentals of discrete mathematics and digital logic. Hands-on activities will focus on problem solving using scientific computation tools and programming. This is a project-based course, in which the students will design FPGA and microcontroller-based hardware and develop embedded software to solve real-world problems. Prerequisite: EEE-315.
Course Description
This course develops the foundations of electrical communications and differences between analog and digital modulation. Main topics covered include: analog signal transmission and reception, effects of noise in analog communications, sampling, digital information sources, entropy, source coding, waveform coding, and PCM Digital transmission through AWGN through band-limited channels. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities include channel coding, wireless and mobile networks, and signal processing using Matlab. Prerequisites: EEE-213 and EEE-213L, EEE-302, and MAT-374 OR ESG-374 and ESG-384.
Course Description
The first capstone course provides students the opportunity to work in teams to tackle real world applied research and design projects in their chosen area of interest. Students develop a project proposal, conduct a feasibility study, learn to protect intellectual property, develop teamwork skills, budgets, and a schedule for completing the project. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revisions. Students use this course to further develop technical writing and business presentation skills. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: ESG-395.
Course Description
This course introduces current trends in computer architecture with a focus on performance measurement, instruction sets, computer arithmetic, design and control of a data path, pipelining, memory hierarchies, input and output, and a brief introduction to multiprocessors. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities focus on writing assembly language code that implements concepts discussed in the lecture course, focusing on registers, processes, threads, and I/O management. Prerequisites: (CST-210 and CST-215), or EEE-315.
Course Description
This course builds on knowledge acquired in previous courses on advanced circuits to expand the coverage of the design and analysis of integrated circuit amplifiers and the design and analysis of feedback amplifiers. Specific topics covered in this course may include: electronics and manufacturing of integrated circuits, microwave/RF amplifiers, linear amplifiers, mixers, and advanced digital and analog circuits. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Hands-on activities focus on the design, assembly, and testing electronic circuits that use diodes, transistors, and operational amplifiers. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: EEE-302, STG-242, and STG-242L.
Course Description
The second capstone course provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first capstone course. The capstone project is a culmination of all the learning experiences in an engineering program. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revision. Prerequisite: ESG-451.
Course Description
This course explains the concepts, structure, and mechanisms of modern operating systems. The course covers computational resources, such as memory, processors, networks, security, and how the programming languages, architectures, and operating systems interact. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on writing a shell that implements process management, file management, and I/O management. Prerequisite: CST-307.
Course Description
This course introduces advanced topics in computer engineering, with emphasis on current research and innovations. Utilizing scientific research and journal publications, students will learn about the most recent hardware and software developments in computer engineering. Prerequisites: EEE-320 and CEE-473.
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.