Computer engineering is a discipline that integrates several fields of electrical engineering and computer science required to develop computer hardware and software. Computer engineers usually have training in electronic engineering (or electrical engineering), software design, and hardware–software integration instead of only software engineering or electronic engineering.
In many institutions, computer engineering students are allowed to choose areas of in-depth study in their junior and senior year, because the full breadth of knowledge used in the design and application of computers is beyond the scope of an undergraduate degree. Other institutions may require engineering students to complete one or two years of General Engineering before declaring computer engineering as their primary focus.
Tasks involving computer engineers include writing software and firmware for embedded microcontrollers, designing VLSI chips, designing analog sensors, designing mixed signal circuit boards, and designing operating systems. Computer engineers are also suited for robotics research, which relies heavily on using digital systems to control and monitor electrical systems like motors, communications, and sensors. There are two major specialties in computer engineering: hardware and software.
Computer Hardware Engineering
Most computer hardware engineers research, develop, design, and test various computer equipment. This can range from circuit boards and microprocessors to routers. Some update existing computer equipment to be more efficient and work with newer software. Most computer hardware engineers work in research laboratories and high-tech manufacturing firms. Some also work for the federal government. According to BLS, 95% of computer hardware engineers work in metropolitan areas
Computer Software Engineering
Computer software engineers develop, design, and test software. They construct, and maintain computer programs, as well as set up networks such as “intranets” for companies. Software engineers can also design or code new applications to meet the needs of a business or individual. Some software engineers work independently as freelancers and sell their software products/applications to an enterprise or individual.
List Of Universities that Offer Computer Engineering In Nigeria
ABUAD – Afe Babalola University , Ado-Ekiti
ABSU – Abia State University
BAYERO – Bayaro University
BAZE – Baze University
BELLS – Bells University of Technology
BENIN – University of Benin
COVENANT – Covenant University, Canaan Land
CARITAS – Caritas University,Enugu
ELIZADE – Elizade University, ondo
ESUTECH – Enugu State University Of Science And Technology
FED-OYEEKITI – Federal University, Oye-Ekiti
FUTA – Federal University of Technology
GREGORY – Gregory University
IGBINEDION – Igbinedion University, Okada
ILORIN – University of Ilorin, Ilorin
KWASU – Kwara State University, Malete, Ilorin
LAGOS – University of Lagos Akoka
LAUTECH – Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
UNIVERSITY OF UYO, UYO
Job Opportunities for Computer Engineers in Nigeria
Computer engineers work for computer companies such as Intel, HP, and Texas Instruments, and also in industries that build or use computer-based systems, such as telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, etc. Many computer engineers also get jobs as programmers. While they have less programming experience than computer science graduates, their understanding of hardware gives them an advantage in dealing with overall systems.