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Computer Engineering (Computer Systems), MS

Computer Engineering (Computer Systems), MS

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Computer Engineering (Computer Systems), MS

Computer, Computer Engineering, approved for STEM-OPT extension

Develop a unique combination of computer science and electrical engineering skills.

Program description
Degree awarded: MS  Computer Engineering (Computer Systems)

The MS in computer engineering is a transdisciplinary program that builds on the fundamentals of computer science, electrical engineering, applied mathematics and physical sciences. Students can take courses and participate in projects across two schools and among the core areas.

The program is intended for students who want to gain knowledge deeper than that provided at the bachelor's degree level, and sufficient for designing and implementing state-of-the-art systems in industrial research and development positions. The program is also appropriate for students contemplating future doctoral study and those who wish to gain experience in research.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Degree requirements

30 credit hours and a portfolio, or
30 credit hours and a thesis

Required Core (6 credit hours)
CSE 551 Foundations of Algorithms (3)
EEE 554 Probability and Random Processes (3)

Electives (18-24 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (0-6 credit hours)
CEN 599 Thesis (6) or
portfolio (0)

Additional Curriculum Information
This program has a thesis and a nonthesis option for the culminating experience. Students in the nonthesis option take 24 credit hours of electives, and students in the thesis option take only 18 credit hours to reach the 30 credit hour requirement. Electives are selected in consultation with the academic unit.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's degree or equivalent or a master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university of recognized standing in a related field such as computer engineering, computer science, computer systems engineering or electrical engineering.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. personal statement
  4. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency via a TOEFL score regardless of their current residency. Students should visit the Admission Services website for more information.

Letters of recommendation are optional.

The personal statement should indicate professional goals and reasons for desiring to enroll in the program.

Depending on an applicant's prior academic preparation and accomplishments, it is recommended that students consider taking the following courses to ensure adequate background preparation:

CSE 230 Computer Organization and Assembly Language Programming
CSE 310 Data Structures and Algorithms
EEE 203 Signals and Systems I
EEE 335 Analog and Digital Circuits
MAT 243 Discrete Mathematical Structures

A reading list of the topics covered in the placement exam is provided in advance of the exam.

Students should see the program website for application deadlines.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 12/31Final
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 08/15Final
Career opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Science program in computer engineering are able to analyze and synthesize key theories and methods used in the field of computer engineering. These graduates can apply new theories, methods and designs that can advance the field of computer engineering. More specifically, computer engineering program graduates have the skills to advance the design, system integration, testing, evaluation and deployment of state-of-the-art hardware and software for systems that include computing, communications and networking (wired and wireless), control functions, sensing, signal processing and actuation.

These skills can be applied in high-demand growth areas such as autonomous systems and robotics; distributed, dependable and secure systems; and embedded systems for media processing and communications.

Master's degree program graduates may work under the direction of scientists and engineers who hold doctorates in high-tech lab settings, assisting in developing innovative products and systems that require strong foundational knowledge in the underlying sciences and the ability to synthesize and analyze engineering principles as they relate to the development of new computer engineering technology.

Career examples include:

  • computer hardware engineer
  • computer systems engineer
  • systems software engineer
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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