Nov 30, 2024  
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Engineering, B.S.E.


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs

Requirements for the major in computer engineering, B.S.E. program


Major technological advances are being made in the computer field at a rapid pace, and it is essential that computer engineering students are not only aware of these advances but prepared to work in this changing environment. Students should gain a strong background in the fundamentals of computer engineering and develop a willingness to accept and thrive on change.

The computer engineering program at Oakland University is designed to provide students with the basic knowledge and skills needed to function effectively in computer-related activities in the years ahead. It is unique in offering a focus on wireless embedded systems. A balance between theoretical and practical experience and an emphasis on the software and hardware aspects of computers are key elements to the university’s computer engineering major. The BSE in Computer Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Program educational objectives

The undergraduate program in Computer Engineering will provide educational experiences aimed toward producing graduates who will:

  • Become successful practitioners in an engineering or related career.
  • Pursue graduate study and/or continuing education opportunities in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or other related disciplines.
  • Demonstrate leadership and excel in multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural environments.
  • Function as responsible members of society with an awareness of the ethical and social ramifications of their work.

Course requirements (minimum of 129 total credits)

To earn the degree of Bachelor of Science in Engineering with a major in computer engineering, students must complete a minimum of 129 credits and satisfy the writing requirements. They must meet the following requirements: (also see Undergraduate degree requirements)

General education (excluding math and science) - 28 credits


  • Students are required to take PHL 104 - Introduction to Ethics in Science and Engineering  to satisfy the general education requirement in Western Civilization.
  • In order to graduate on-schedule without taking additional courses, it is highly recommended that students meet with an SECS Undergraduate Academic Adviser concerning the selection of all of their general education courses. 

Professional electives - 12 credits


Any set of 300-, 400-, or 500-level engineering courses, computer science courses, concentrations (see below), or approved mathematics and science electives; excluding co-ops/internships. Of the 12 credits, at least 4 must be from a 400- or 500-level course. Prior approval of the chairperson of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is required for ECE 490 and ECE 494. Suggested concentration sets of courses are provided below:

Economics requirement


In addition to the requirements stated above, computer engineering students must fulfill the economics requirement. This may be met by completion of ECN 150 , ECN 201 , ECN 202  or ECN 210 .

Performance requirements


In addition to the previously stated requirements, satisfactory completion of the program requires an average grade of at least 2.0 within each group: namely, mathematics and science, core subjects and professional subjects. Within professional subjects, at most two grades below 2.0 are permitted; at most two different courses may be repeated, and a total of three repeat attempts is permitted.

Sample computer engineering schedule


Students entering the School of Engineering and Computer Science with the required background may follow a schedule such as the one indicated below. However, students will need additional time to complete the program if they do not have the required background upon entrance to the program.

Freshman year


Sophomore year


Junior year


Senior year


Fall semester – 16 credits

Winter semester – 16 credits

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs