Studying Computer Science and Engineering at ͬÐÔÁµÉ«Çé
Computer science and engineering is the next step in the evolution of computing education at ͬÐÔÁµÉ«Çé. It combines the strengths of both computer science and computer engineering into a unified degree where students learn to design and engineer complete computing systems, from low‑level hardware all the way to advanced software and intelligent applications.
As a student, you will study how modern computing technologies are conceived, built, programmed, secured and deployed. You will gain hands‑on experience across programming, algorithms, digital logic, computer architecture, circuits, operating systems and systems design. This approach prepares you to innovate at the intersection of hardware and software, where many of today’s most critical breakthroughs occur.
What Students Learn
As a computer science and engineering major at ͬÐÔÁµÉ«Çé, you’ll gain a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, programming and data structures that are foundational to the field. From there, you’ll dive into specialized courses that explore hardware and software that include programming, secure coding, CMOS VLSI, systems design, algorithms, computer architecture ethics and operating systems.
Electives allow you to explore areas from AI and robotics to cryptographic hardware and cybersecurity – preparing you to design the next generation of computing technology. There’s also flexibility in natural science requirements, with no chemistry requirement.
Careers and Outcomes
Tampa Bay’s tech sector has grown 28.5% over the past five years, with companies like Apple, Lockheed Martin, Meta, Jabil, ReliaQuest and Rapid7 recruiting from ͬÐÔÁµÉ«Çé’s talent pool. Computer science and engineering graduates excel in roles such as:
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Hardware engineer
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Software engineer
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Embedded systems engineer
- Cybersecurity engineer
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AI infrastructure engineer
Job market highlights ():
- 7% job growth projected for computer hardware engineers (2024–2034), much faster than average
- $155,020 median national salary
- 4,700 job openings projected per year over the next decade
Beyond the Classroom
Gain real-world experience and build your resume through opportunities such as:
- Internships: Many students take part in internships starting as early as their sophomore year. With Tampa Bay’s growing tech community and connections to major national companies, you’ll have the chance to work on real projects, build professional skills and network with future employers. Learn more about internships in the college.
- Cooperative Education (Co-Op): Through the ͬÐÔÁµÉ«Çé Center for Career and Professional Development, co-op integrates paid career-related work experience with your academic program on a part- or full-time basis.
- Undergraduate Research: From artificial intelligence to cybersecurity, students can get involved in faculty-led research projects that tackle real-world challenges. Research experiences can appear on your official transcript and give you a competitive edge for graduate school or industry careers.