Computer Engineering Technology
Degrees Offered
Program Summary
Students in the Computer Engineering Technology program build a strong foundation in all aspects of computer technology including hardware, software, and system administration.
The program prepares both Associate's and Bachelor's degree students for career opportunities in fields such as digital hardware design, software development (with an emphasis on system software), network administration, and system administration.
The Computer Engineering Technology program provides a solid foundation in mathematics and science. This knowledge is reinforced with extensive hands-on experience in Vermont Tech's lab facilities. The department has two computer labs and three electronics labs that are specialized for the program. In addition the department has several dedicated Linux and Windows servers for student and classroom use.
Both the Associate's and Bachelor's degree programs are accredited by Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Areas of Study
The Associate's degree curriculum focuses on fundamental technical principles, supplemented by exposure to a combination of system hardware and software topics. Specific areas of study include:
- An introduction to analog electronics;
- Digital electronics;
- Microprocessor systems;
- Programming with assembly language and with a high level language (C);
- Object-oriented programming (C++);
- Networking;
- System administration.
The Bachelor's degree program focuses on more advanced skills in the junior and senior years of study. The curriculum continues with a balanced treatment of hardware, software, and systems administration topics such as:
- Advanced digital design;
- Embedded systems;
- Computer architecture;
- Digital signal processing;
- Operating systems programming;
- Network programming;
- Computer security;
- Database systems
Career Opportunities
Common career opportunities for Associate's degree holders include programming, sales engineering, customer support, network administration, and manufacturing of computer-based systems.
Bachelor's degree holders can expect to pursue careers in similar fields, as well as software engineering, test engineering, embedded system design, and product development. The Bachelor's degree provides greater potential for advancement to management-level positions.
Typical employers of program graduates include:
- Any type of company that uses technology systems to manage its business processes;
- Internet service providers;
- Software development companies or departments;
- Companies in the semiconductor industry;
- Network solutions companies;
- Computer systems vendors (consultants).
Following are typical roles that program graduates might pursue:
- Systems administrators;
- Network administrators;
- IT professionals who support the use technology to manage business functions;
- Software developers.
Enrollment Information
Students may apply to either the Bachelor's degree program or the Associate's degree program. Students who successfully complete the Associate's degree program may apply to continue for the Bachelor's of Science degree without any loss of time. In addition, students with an accredited Associate's degree from another institution are encouraged to transfer into the Bachelor's program at Vermont Tech. Students in the Bachelor's degree program also receive an Associate's degree upon completion of the Associate's degree requirements.
Transfer students and Associate's degree holders who have prior work experience will be evaluated for placement in certain courses prior to enrolling in the Bachelor's program. Candidates may be required to make up certain introductory level courses, or may test out of certain required courses based on skill. Applicants are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Certifications
There are no specific certifications required of Computer Engineering Technology, but graduates may independently pursue certification in specific technologies or skills.
Prerequisites and Other Requirements
There are no specific prerequisites for students applying to the Computer Engineering Technology. A strong background in mathematics and science is recommended.
Campus Locations
The Computer Engineering Technology program is offered at the Randolph Center campus and at the Williston campus in Chittenden County.
Accreditation
Both the Associate's and Bachelor's degree programs are accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (TAC of ABET). For more information on accreditation, contact ABET at:
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
111 Market Place
Suite 1050
Baltimore, MD 21202-4012
(410) 347-7700