Do Computer Hardware Engineers have Electrical Engineering degrees?

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SUMMARY

Computer Hardware Engineers typically hold degrees in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering, with a focus on digital systems. The distinction lies in their specialized knowledge; Computer Engineers emphasize programming, microcomputer design, and high-speed digital design, while Electrical Engineers concentrate on analog systems and RF designs. Both fields exhibit significant overlap in coursework, particularly in programming and systems design. Universities often offer these as separate degrees, reflecting their unique yet interconnected domains.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Electrical Engineering principles
  • Familiarity with Computer Engineering concepts
  • Knowledge of programming languages, particularly C and assembly
  • Basic principles of digital and analog systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum differences between Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering degrees
  • Explore the role of programming in Computer Hardware Engineering
  • Learn about microcomputer design and its applications
  • Investigate the principles of high-speed digital design
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Students considering a career in engineering, professionals in the tech industry, and educators in engineering disciplines will benefit from this discussion.

Dagenais
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So, I've heard that recently, the occupation of Electrical Engineers and Computer Hardware Engineers have been separated. Electrical Engineers that specialize in making computer hardware are called the latter.

I was just wondering if "Computer Hardware Engineers" still hold Electrical Engineering degrees, or something different? Do they study something else after?

Sorry for the spelling mistakes, my computer is really slowing down here and I didn't bother to check.
 
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I was just wondering if "Computer Hardware Engineers" still hold Electrical Engineering degrees, or something different? Do they study something else after?

Yes! They study.
 
A computer systems engineer is going to know:
* Programming (especially in C and asm)
* Programmable logic
* Gate delay's
* Operating systems
* Device driver code
* Physics of semiconductors
* Microcomputer design
* Logic design
* High speed digital design

Whereas, a ee would know stuff like:
* RF
* High power designs
* analog systems
 
Well let me try to clarify the separation between the two.

The two fields I believe you are talking about are Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering.

Computer Engineering does not only deal with computer hardware, but anything that is digital. Whereas an Electrical Engineer deals with analog systems. Anything with a microprocessor is usually in the realm of Computer Engineering. For example computers, cell phones, digital cameras, etc.

At my university, they are two separate degrees with much overlap.

Electrical Engineers still take a bunch of programming classes, though not as much as Computer Engineers do.

As I said before, there is much overlap between the two disciplines.
 

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