Why study Computer Engineering
What is Computer Engineering?
Computer Engineering is a broad field at the intersection of hardware and software.
Examples for topics inside and applications of Computer Engineering include:
- Programming of hardware-near software (ethernet switches, graphic cards, the chip in a washing machine, CMOS cameras in cellphones)
- Image capturing (CCD and CMOS cameras, data acquisition and processing)
- Construction of computer systems, clusters, networks, specialized computers
- Implementation of data communication in hardware (DSL, GBit Ethernet, optical data transfer)
- Measured value acquisition and control (robotics)
- Process Control
- Design of hardware (graphic boards, framegrabber, data acquisition, medical devices, virtual reality)
What do I learn while studying Computer Enginnering?
Besides fundamentals in practical computer science and mathematics, the curriculum consists of a large percentage of topics from electrical engineering and information technology:
- Physical foundations of Computer Engineering
- Signals and Systems
- Digital circuitry and FPGAs
- Hands-on measurement training
- Digital signal processing
- Embedded systems
For acquiring your Master you have the choice between several areas of specialization. Those include:
- Application Specific Computing
- Microelectronics
- Robotics, Haptics & Biomechanics
Besides pure factual knowledge we would like to communicate other skills as well:
- Scientific thought
- Broad knowledge in information technology
- Education in hardware as well as in software
- Business knowledge
- Readiness for interdisciplinary thought and development
- Practical experience
- Capability for teamwork
You can find further information about lectures and the elements of the study course on the website MSc Computer Engineering.
What skills are necessary to study Computer Engineering?
Most of all, students of Computer Engineering should be interested in tackling and solving technical and scientific problems. It is important as well to be proactive in acquiring information and knowledge.
For your application, the most important things are good marks in the relevant subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science).
What does the structure of the curriculum look like?
You can find more detailed information about the progression and structure of the course of studies on the website MSc Computer Engineering.
What is special about the course Computer Engineering at the University of Heidelberg?
- The course is very application-oriented
- High quality support for students
- A scholarship system is being built at the moment targeting TI Students
- Innovative course of studies which is approved by the industry
- Numerous cooperations with industries (Center of Excellence for Hypertransport, SEED, ...)
- Part of the excellence initiatives of the University of Heidelberg (Cellular networks, ...)
What research is being done at the institute?
The seven chairs of computer engineering are engaged in a broad spectrum of fields of research. You can find a short introduction to each chair and its research activities in our short tour.
What career paths are open to graduates?
The occupational areas of our alumni include:
- Communication technology
- Computer design, construction and service
- Design and supervision of computer networks
- Design and optimization of products
- Development of embedded systems
- Aviation and astronautical engineering
- Pharmaceutical industry (process control)
- Consulting
Our graduates are employed at various well-established enterprises. There is also the possibility of an academic career at the Institute of Computer Engineering.
What possibilities exist outside of your degree program?
During studies there are lots of possibilities for further activity. Students can work as research assistants at our chairs. As a tutor for younger students you can also help to improve teaching.
It is also possible to support the students council in its useful work.
