Computer Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a rigorous and comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for the rapidly evolving technology landscape. This program combines fundamental principles of electrical engineering and computer science to develop skilled professionals capable of designing, developing, and analyzing modern computing systems. Students will engage with a diverse curriculum that includes courses in software development, digital systems, computer architecture, algorithms, and embedded systems, providing them with a well-rounded technical foundation. Throughout their studies, students have opportunities to apply their knowledge through hands-on laboratory work, project-based coursework, and internships, fostering practical problem-solving skills and industry readiness. The program emphasizes both hardware and software aspects of computing, enabling graduates to pursue careers in areas such as robotics, cybersecurity, software engineering, embedded systems, and hardware design. Research opportunities are abundant, with access to cutting-edge laboratories and collaboration with faculty engaged in pioneering projects across various domains of computer engineering. The program also encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, supporting students in developing new technologies and startup ideas. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to contribute to the technological advancements that shape our society, whether through industry roles, graduate studies, or research initiatives. The university’s strong ties with leading technology companies and research institutions further enhance student experiences through internships, co-op programs, and networking opportunities. With a comprehensive curriculum, a focus on practical experience, and a vibrant academic community, the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers an outstanding education for aspiring computer engineers seeking to make an impact in the digital world.

Foundational Mathematics and Science

Total Hours: 31

Computer Engineering Technical Core

Technical Electives

• 27 hours to be selected from departmentally approved List of Technical Electives
• One course from departmentally approved list of EE Foundations Courses
• Three courses from departmentally approved list of Advanced Computing Electives

Liberal Education

The liberal education courses develop students’ understanding of human culture and society, build skills of inquiry and critical thinking, and lay a foundation for civic engagement and lifelong learning.

Students must also complete the campus cultural studies requirement by completing (i) one western/comparative culture(s) course and (ii) one non-western/U.S. minority culture(s) course from the General Education cultural studies lists. Most students select liberal education courses that simultaneously satisfy these cultural studies requirements. Courses from the western and non-western lists that fall into free electives or other categories may also be used satisfy the cultural studies requirements.

Composition

These courses teach fundamentals of expository writing.

Free Electives

These unrestricted electives, subject to certain exceptions as noted at the College of Engineering advising website, give the student the opportunity to explore any intellectual area of unique interest. This freedom plays a critical role in helping students to define research specialties or to complete minors.

Suggested Sequence

1. Completed application.

2. ACT or SAT I scores

3. TOEFL/IELTS test.

4. Application fee ($75 for international stdents).

ISSS Financial Assistance

ISSS has limited funding available to assist international students who currently attend the University of Illinois and experiencing unexpected short-term or emergency financial hardship. Assistance may take the form of a loan or grant, depending on the nature and severity of your need. The method of payment and processing time will vary depending on the type of funding. Both grants and loans have very specific eligibility requirements, and therefore ISSS advisors must assess each case individually. If you have a situation that you think might qualify for financial assistance, please fill out the e-form (available in iStart, under "Insurance and Finances" ). After submitting your application, an ISSS will contact you regarding your case within a week.

Maria Pia Gratton International Award

This award is intended to enable a female graduate student from outside the United States to have an academic and cultural experience at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Illinois). Preference will be given to a student who has had a limited opportunity to travel outside of her home country. The Gratton Award provides a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend totaling $10,000 for the academic year.

Avery Brundage Scholarship

The UIUC Avery Brundage Scholarship is designed for students who demonstrate excellence both in academic pursuits and in amateur athletic endeavors. Financial need is not a factor. Full-time graduate students in good standing with a "special athletic ability" in an amateur sport are eligible. Previous winners have represented a wide variety of sports from archery and tennis to swimming and wheelchair basketball. 

Annual James Scholar Certification

James Scholar reviews take place in the summer. Therefore, if your GPA dips below the prescribed level after the Fall semester, you may still make up for the deficiency in the Spring and remain a James Scholar. Summer courses cannot be used to make up for a GPA deficiency in the preceding academic year. However, if you move your GPA back above the prescribed limit after the Summer, you may apply in the beginning of the Fall semester to be reinstated as a James Scholar. If you maintain the prescribed GPA at the end of the Spring semester and have completed the necessary honors requirements for the academic year, you will be certified and it will be noted in your transcripts for the full year. If you maintain the prescribed GPA but do not complete the necessary honors activities, you do not get certified but can continue as a James Scholar for the next year.

James Scholar

To apply, you must meet the GPA requirements and design an honors contract that can be completed and will enable you to fulfill the graduation requirements of the program while an undergraduate. The honors contract can be modified at any time as long as the changes are approved. If you’re a transfer student, you may apply to be a James Scholar after at least one semester on campus, if your Illinois GPA meets the requirements. Grades in transfer courses will not be considered for James Scholar status. Applications to join the Engineering James Scholar Program can be made online in the first two weeks of any semester.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving field of computer technology. The curriculum integrates principles from electrical engineering and computer science to develop a deep understanding of hardware and software systems. Students will explore core areas such as computer architecture, software development, algorithms, digital systems, and embedded systems, ensuring they acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning through laboratory work, design projects, and research. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to participate in projects that combine hardware and software engineering. In addition to technical courses, the program includes coursework in mathematics, physics, and engineering ethics to prepare students for the complex challenges in their future careers.

Career prospects for graduates of the program are diverse, spanning industries such as information technology, telecommunications, manufacturing, aerospace, and consumer electronics. Many students undertake internships with leading tech companies or participate in research initiatives to gain real-world experience. The university's extensive network of industry partnerships and cutting-edge research centers provides students with valuable opportunities for professional development.

The program also offers specializations in areas such as embedded systems, computer hardware, software engineering, and network systems. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities like student organizations, coding competitions, and entrepreneurial ventures to enhance their skills and professional network. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign maintains a strong reputation for engineering education, and its computer engineering program is recognized for its rigorous academic standards and innovative research.

Overall, the Bachelor's program in Computer Engineering at UIUC aims to produce well-rounded graduates who are equipped with the technical expertise and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in an increasingly digital world. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and emphasis on experiential learning make it an ideal place for aspiring computer engineers to develop their careers.