Computer Engineering Technology

The Associate in Applied Science degree in computer engineering is accepted at some colleges and universities as the first two years of a bachelor’s-level engineering technology program. This program has been designed to either ease the transition for students planning to join the workforce, or to continue to UNC Charlotte’s Bachelor's in electrical engineering program or to other universities.

What You Will Learn

Beginning with electrical fundamentals, computer engineering coursework progressively introduces electronics, circuit simulation, solid-state fundamentals, digital concepts, instrumentation, C++ programming, microprocessors, microcomputer applications, networking, operating systems, I/O hardware interfacing, industrial applications, and data acquisition using LabView. Other coursework includes the study of various fields associated with the electrical/electronic industry. There are several opportunities for industry certifications built into the program that allow you to add skills to your resume. The program curriculum provides the skills required to design and implement microprocessor and computer controlled equipment in networks. The program includes training in both hardware and software, emphasizing operating system concepts to provide a unified view of computer systems.

Program Educational Objectives

1. Graduates will have the knowledge and skills to perform at a technician level for regional employers in a field related to their program.
2. Graduates will have the communication skills to engage in a teamwork environment.
3. Employers will be satisfied with the performance and education of graduates and will be willing to employ future graduates.
4. Graduates will be able to accept increasing levels of responsibility by using critical thinking skills and adapting to changing technology in the workplace.
5. Those graduates choosing to continue their education in a four-year engineering technology program will have the technical, communication, and team working skills to perform satisfactorily in such programs.

Student Outcomes

Recent graduates of the Computer Engineering Technology program will have:

1. an ability to apply knowledge, techniques, skills, and modern tools of mathematics, science, engineering, and technology to solve well-defined engineering problems appropriate to the discipline
2. an ability to design solutions for well-defined technical problems and assist with the engineering design of systems, components, or processes appropriate to the discipline
3. an ability to apply written, oral, and graphical communication in well-defined technical and non-technical environments, and an ability to identify and use appropriate technical literature
4. an ability to conduct standard tests, measurements, and experiments and to ethically analyze and interpret the results
5. an ability to function and grow effectively as a member of a technical team delivering timely and quality contributions to the team goal.

Specifically, the Computer Engineering Technology curriculum enables the program to provide graduates with instruction in the knowledge, techniques, skills, and use of modern tools in computer engineering technology. Graduates of associate degree programs have strengths in the building, testing, operation, and maintenance of computer systems and their associated software systems. The curriculum includes instruction in the following topics: 

1. CMP a: application of electric circuits, computer programming, associated software applications, analog and digital electronics, microcontrollers, operating systems, local area networks, and engineering standards to the building, testing, operation, and maintenance of computer systems and associated software systems; and 
2. CMP b: application of natural sciences and mathematics at or above the level of algebra and trigonometry to the building, testing, operation, and maintenance of computer systems and associated software systems.

Graduates should qualify for employment opportunities in electronics technology, computer service, computer networks, server maintenance, programming, and other areas requiring a knowledge of electronic and computer systems.

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Why Choose Central Piedmont

The Associate of Applied Science in Computer Engineering Technology program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Computer Engineering Technology and Similarly Named Programs. Our learning environments are home to the industry's latest equipment and software, as well as quality instructors who bring real-world experience into the classroom. This powerful combination of traditional teaching and hands-on learning prepares our students for employment in today's 21st century workforce.

Real World Education

At Central Piedmont, your education goes beyond what you learn in class. We offer numerous opportunities for you to enhance your learning — and to make friends, network, and pursue your passions — through clubs and organizations, sports, events and activities, leadership opportunities, job experience, volunteer experiences, visual and performing arts, and even international experiences.