Get quick answers about Electrical & Computer Engineering at the Schaefer School at Stevens, including what the field covers and key curriculum areas. For more details, visit our undergraduate or graduate program pages.
FAQ
What is computer engineering vs. computer science?
The Computer Engineering program at Stevens includes a core engineering curriculum, with coursework in math, science and multidisciplinary engineering. This broad-based foundation prepares students to collaborate across technical fields and solve real-world problems.
Computer science, by comparison, is centered on software—how programs are written, how data is processed and how algorithms work. Computer engineering bridges software and hardware, focusing on how computing systems are designed, built and integrated, from physical components to the code that runs on them.
What do computer engineers do?
Computer engineers design, build and optimize the hardware and software systems that make modern computing possible. They also develop the interface between software and electronics by allowing both disciplines to interact with one another. Computer engineers work across a wide range of industries, including: embedded systems and IoT, robotics & automation, telecommunications & networking, semiconductor & hardware design (chips, processors), automotive (especially electric & autonomous vehicles), consumer electronics and aerospace & defense.
Is computer engineering replaced by AI?
The Computer Engineering program at Stevens provides a broad based engineering education in fundamental principles, design methodologies, and practical experiences that can support the development of AI systems and applications. Our students acquire the knowledge and skill set to be adaptable in the AI era.
Is computer science an engineering degree?
No, the Computer Science degree is not an engineering degree. Computer science is generally offered as a science degree, focused on the theory and practice of software, algorithms and data.
Engineering disciplines, such as Electrical and Computer Engineering at Stevens, extend beyond theory to the design and development of real-world systems. These programs combine rigorous scientific principles with hands-on engineering, preparing students to build and integrate technologies that span hardware and software.
What are the major job responsibilities of an electrical engineer?
Electrical engineers work across many industries, including telecommunications, consumer electronics, power generation and renewable energy, robotics and automation, semiconductors and aerospace & defense. Their core responsibilities tend to follow a common theme: designing, developing, testing and improving electrical and electronic systems and devices.
Is physics a prerequisite for an electrical engineering degree?
Several physics courses are required as part of the core engineering curriculum in the Electrical Engineering program.
Is the B.S. ECE degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering?
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers two separate Bachelor of Engineering degree programs. One is a Bachelor's of Engineering in Electrical Engineering, and the other is Bachelor's of Engineering in Computer Engineering. There is no Bachelor's of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering degree at Stevens.
Is electrical engineering ABET accredited?
The Electrical Engineering program at Stevens has been ABET accredited since 1986.