Program Overview

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) offers Nebraska’s only comprehensive program of higher education, research, and service outreach in computer science, computer engineering, and software engineering.

The CSE department offers a challenging baccalaureate degree program in computer engineering that prepares graduates for professional practice in commerce, industry, and government and for post-graduate education to enter careers in research and academia. The bachelor of science degree in computer engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET.

The focus of the program is integrated hardware/software system design. Increasingly, diverse systems, products, and processes depend on computers for design, control, data acquisition, and other functions. The computer engineer possesses the range of expertise to have an integrated view of computer-based systems and to make global design decisions.

Consistent with this focus, the computer engineering baccalaureate program develops:

• The ability to view computer systems as an integrated continuum of technologies and to engage in integrated system-level design. Studies include mathematical foundations, digital logic and technologies, programming and software design, system components and design, application of theory, experimentation, design tools and techniques, and documentation and maintenance.
• The ability to work with professionals in related fields over the spectrum of system design. Studies include natural sciences, electricity/electronics, and programming and software design.
• Skills to quickly adapt to new work environments, assimilate new information, and solve new problems. Studies develop skills in the application of theory, experimentation, design tools and techniques, documentation and maintenance, and technical communications.
• The background and perspective for post-graduate education. Studies develop skills in the application of theory, experimentation, and lifelong learning/professional development.
• Abilities to work in conformance with societal needs and expectations. Studies include liberal arts and ethical/social issues.
• Insight into the world of practicing professionals for collaborations, mutual support, and representing the profession to government and society. Studies include teamwork and lifelong learning/professional development, plus students are provided multiple opportunities for involvement in organizations such as ACM, UPE, and IEEE.

The CSE department also offers a degree of bachelor of science in computer science through the College of Arts and Sciences. All students majoring in the CSE department should see their advisors during their first semester to make sure they understand the differences in the requirements of the two programs. Majors should consult with their advisors each semester for registration advising.