Major Description

The Computer Engineering program emphasizes the application of engineering principles to the design of computer hardware and software, and devotes additional time to issues of computer architecture and advanced topics in hardware design, including extensive laboratory work. Students in this program also acquire a broad background in engineering topics through related coursework in the College.

Mission Statement
In keeping with the mission of the College of Engineering, the Department of Computer Science and Engineering strives for excellence in teaching, research, and public service. Specifically, the Department aspires to:

1. Lead the advancement of computer science, computer engineering, and information technology through internationally recognized research and graduate education, as well as technology transfer to regional industries.
2. Prepare students for full and ethical participation in a diverse society and encourage lifelong learning.
3. Educate students in the best practices of the field as well as integrate the latest research into the curriculum.
4. Foster the development of problem solving and communication skills as an integral component of the profession.
5. Provide quality learning experiences through small classes, active learning styles of teaching, and opportunities for meaningful interactions between students and faculty.

Objectives

The Department of Computer Science and Engineering has established the following program educational objectives for computer engineering graduates of the Department.

1. Our computer engineering graduates will apply their knowledge and skills to succeed in their career and/or obtain an advanced degree.
2. Our graduates will function ethically and responsibly, and will remain informed and involved as full participants in our profession and our society.
3. Our graduates will successfully function in multi-disciplinary teams.
4. Our graduates will apply basic principles and practices of computing grounded in mathematics and science to successfully complete hardware and/or software related engineering projects to meet customer business objectives and/or productively engage in research.

Entrance and Continuation Requirements for the Computer Engineering Program
College of Engineering students who have fully met the below admission requirements and are in good academic standing, may declare a major in Computer Engineering. Prior to being admitted to a department, a student may be permitted to take no more than two departmental courses.

Minimum Admission Requirements for the Computer Engineering Program

1. Completion of:
   • English Composition I (ENC 1101) and English Composition II (ENC 1102)
   • Calculus I (MAC 2311 or MAC 2281) and Calculus II (MAC 2312 or MAC 2282)
   • Calculus-based Physics I with Lab (PHY 2048 and PHY 2048L)
   • Calculus-based Physics II with Lab (PHY 2049 and PHY 2049L)
   All students must complete the equivalent of USF Composition I & II, Engineering Calculus I & II and Calculus-based General Physics I & II (with Labs) with minimum grades of C in each course (grades of C- are insufficient). The minimum overall average GPA in these six courses required for admission to the Department is between 3.0 and 3.5 for any given year. The minimum acceptable average GPA will be posted on the Department's website one year prior to the Fall Semester that the revised GPA is applicable. The computed GPA is based on the best attempts in these courses.
2. Completion of COP 2510 with a minimum grade of B (grade of B- is insufficient) or another introductory programming course covering a modern programming language, with an emphasis on programming concepts and design methodology with a minimum grade of B (grade of B- is insufficient).
3. A minimum overall GPA of 2.0
4. A minimum USF GPA of 2.0

Minimum Continuation Requirements for the Computer Engineering Program

Students meeting the above requirements may be admitted to either of the Computer Engineering or Computer Science degree tracks; however, continuation in the program will be allowed only for students who complete CDA 3103 and COP 3514 with minimum grades of B, based on best attempts in each course (grades of B- are insufficient). These requirements must be met with a maximum of two attempts allowed for each course.

GPA and Grade Requirements

Unless otherwise stated, the minimum acceptable grade in all BSCP required math, science, and engineering courses is a C or higher (C- is insufficient). The minimum acceptable grade in specialization courses is a C-, except as stated in the program admission and continuation requirements. Students must have and maintain a minimum 2.0 Math and Science GPA, 2.0 Engineering GPA, 2.0 Specialization GPA, 2.0 USF GPA, and 2.0 Overall GPA.

Departmental Policies

In addition to the College’s graduation requirements, the Department has the following policies:

1. Mandatory academic advising and/or mentoring of students.
2. Exit interview and/or survey as a graduation requirement