Computer Engineering (or Computer Science Engineering) is the branch of engineering which studies elements both from electrical engineering and computer science and applies it to the making and development of computers and computer-based systems.Computer engineers build computers such as PCs, workstations, and supercomputers. They also build computer-based systems such as those found in cars, planes, appliances, electronics, phones, communication networks, and many other products. Computer engineers typically design not only the hardware, but also much of the software in computer-based systems.
The main tasks of computer engineers involve developing software and firmware for embedded microcontrollers, designing VLSI chips, designing analog sensors, designing mixed signal circuit boards, and designing operating systems. Computer engineers also work to carry out research on robotics, which relies heavily on using digital systems to control and monitor electrical systems like motors, communications, and sensors.
Making a career in computer science/engineering is challenging but rewarding. It requires the basic skills of Physics and Maths. In recent times computer science and engineering has become one of the most sought after career option for engineering aspirants owing to the excellent employment opportunities in hardware and software industries.
Courses & Eligibility
An educational career in computer engineering can be started after class 10th. Here the individual is only eligible to pursue Diploma program in computer engineering. After successful completion of the course, he/she can join as a junior engineer in various public and private sector jobs.
The minimum eligibility for doing undergraduate program i.e. BE/BTech in Computer Engineering is + 2 Science with Physics, Chemistry and Maths. The selection is generally made on the basis of entrance tests (e.g. IITJEE, AIEEE, BITSAT etc.) conducted at both national and state level.
One can also continue his/her study further by joining ME/MTech programs offered by various engineering colleges/universities including the IITs and NITs. A GATE qualification can further make one’s admission process easier.
AMIE Associate Memberships of the Institution of Engineers also offers courses in computer engineering which is equivalent to BE/BTech provided by other institutes/universities.
Those who are interested to study further can join PhD programs offered by various universities and technological institutions situated at various parts of the country.
Career Prospects
Computer engineering graduates find job opportunities in a variety of environments in academia, research, industry, government, private, business organizations and so on. They are involved in analyzing problems for solutions, formulating and testing, using advanced communications or multi-media equipment, or working in teams for product development. The software and IT companies are the major employers of computer engineering graduates. They offer the best packages to the young graduates which are unmatched with other branches of engineering profession.
Pay-Package
There has been significant development in software sector in last few years which has opened the door of new opportunities for young computer engineers. The salary of computer engineer depends on the type of employer – public or private. Generally private firms offer excellent salary as compared to government departments. Working experience, qualifications, ability are important factors in determining the pay level. In India, a fresh pass-out from an average engineering college can expect starting monthly salary somewhere between Rs.10, 000 – Rs.25, 000. With having 1-2 years of industrial experience, the salary may go up to Rs. 50, 000 per month and even more or beyond expectations. Freshers from elite technological universities/colleges (IITs and NITs) are offered annual pay package up to 10 lakhs.
Institutes/Universities
Almost all engineering colleges in the country offer BE/BTech program in computer science and engineering. The pioneer institutes are the Indian Institutes of Technology, Birla institute of Technology, National Institutes of Technology, Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), College of Engineering and Technology (Anna University) and several other engineering colleges.
Please click on the links given below to get a list of vast number of engineering colleges located in various states and major cities of the country which are providing degree programs in computer science and engineering.