Computer engineering is a relatively new discipline. It lies somewhere in the middle between computer science—which covers theory, algorithms, software, networking, graphics and computer architecture, and electrical engineering—which covers microelectronics, electrical circuits and devices, networks, communications systems, computer architecture, hardware design and systems analysis. Computer engineers design, analyze, produce, operate, program and maintain computer and digital systems. They apply theories and principles of science and mathematics to the design of hardware, software, networks and processes to solve technical problems.

Over the past decade, computers have evolved into complex systems that may consist of single machines or many interconnected computers linked by a data network. In one form or another, computers now control most telephone and communications systems, process control and manufacturing automation systems, management information systems, household appliances, automobiles, transportation systems and medical instrumentation. Computers also form the core of the Internet. To work in the constantly evolving discipline of computer systems engineering, the computer engineer must acquire competence in both digital computer hardware and the fundamentals of software engineering.

Careers in computer engineering are as wide and varied as computer systems themselves. Systems range from embedded computer systems found in consumer products or medical devices; control systems for automobiles, aircraft and trains; to more wide-ranging applications in telecommunications, financial transactions and information systems. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists computer engineering as the fastest growing occupation in the U.S., with 299,000 jobs in 1998 to a predicted 622,000 jobs in 2008.

Computer Engineering students get a chance to participate in projects that require extensive knowledge of both hardware and software. They concentrate on interraction between hardware and software, and different ways of building better embedded devices. The Computer Engineering program at UAF prepares students for a competitive world of microprocessor-based devices, ranging from automobile board computers, over biomedical devices, to everyday embedded systems like PDA and GPS devices.