Program Description
The Department of Computer Science and the Department of Engineering
jointly sponsor this program. Students desiring intensive study at the
undergraduate level to develop proficiency in the fields of computer
engineering, such as hardware, software, and systems that arise in the
design, analysis, evelopment, and application of computers and
digital systems, will find this program to be a challenging and
rewarding experience. The curriculum provides a broad foundation in the
science and engineering of computers and digital systems with emphasis
on theory, analysis, design, natural science, and discrete and
continuous mathematics in a liberal arts setting. The broad range of
Hofstra University resources in the humanities and social sciences make
the liberal arts component especially enlightening.
Students will develop analytical, computer and applied skills
which will enable them to analyze, design and test digital and
computer systems, architectures, networks, and processes.
Graduates will understand the various areas of computer engineering
such as applied electronics, digital devices and systems,
electromagnetic fields and waves, and computer architectures, systems,
and networks. Graduates will also have an understanding of hardware
issues, software issues and models, the
interactions between these issues, and related applications. This
thorough preparation in theoretical tools and laboratory
experimentation will give graduates the skill and flexibility required
to meet the ever changing demands on the computer engineer. The program
is responsive to suggestions posed by industry leaders from the Long
Island community.
Students will develop design skills progressively, beginning
with their first courses in programming, circuit analysis, digital
circuits, computer architectures, and networks, and they will
apply their accumulating knowledge to practical problems
throughout the curriculum. This process culminates in the capstone design course, which complements the analytical part of
the curriculum.
The thorough preparation afforded by the computer
engineering curriculum includes the broad education necessary to
understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal
context. Hence, graduates will be well prepared for professional
employment or advanced studies.
Program Objectives
Graduates of the computer engineering program will realize the following program objectives:
- Build a strong foundation in computer engineering and in its
applications through knowledge of theoretical principles, analytical
methods, laboratory experience, and design participation.
- Acquire a meaningful understanding of the fundamental
mathematical and scientific concepts, develop a practical understanding
of the scientific method of investigation, and recognize and select the
relevant theoretical and empirical frameworks to address real-world
problems.
- Develop oral and written communication skills, attain
interpersonal and organizational skills in order to work on teams,
acquire an appreciation and understanding of the social and ethical
issues related to the technological development of computer systems.
- Prepare to become successful practitioners or to pursue graduate
studies in computer engineering or other professional fields, and to
become lifelong learners and contributors in the computing and
engineering fields.
- Develop the ability to think critically and creatively to solve problems in a commercial or industrial environment.
Student Outcomes
The following generic indicators of achievement apply to computer
engineering graduates and provide methods for measuring the program’s
effectiveness in meeting its stated program objectives. (a)
Ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, computer science,
and electrical engineering; (b) Ability to design and conduct
experiments, and to analyze and interpret data; (c) Ability to design a
system, component, or process to meet desired needs; (d) Ability to
function on a multidisciplinary team; (e) Ability to identify,
formulate, and solve computer engineering problems; (f) Understanding
of professional and ethical responsibility; (g) Ability to communicate
effectively; (h) Broad education necessary to understand the impact of
engineering solutions in a global and societal context; (i) Recognition
of the need and ability to engage in lifelong learning; (j)
Knowledge of contemporary issues; (k) Ability to use techniques,
skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering
practice.