Computer Engineering
A Computer Engineer
in the Making
Computer engineers are behind everything we do. Their work is in cars, cellphones, televisions, refrigerators, smart speakers, pacemakers, airplanes – the list goes on. Our computer engineer graduates imagine, invent and design essential hardware, software, systems and networks that connect our world and thus create a smarter, safer and better society for all.
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92%
employed or continuing education within six months of graduation
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$82,200
average starting annual salary
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$25/hr
average earnings for internships and co-ops
A competitive advantage
Iowa State Engineers get hired. And we’re here to help connect you to internships and full-time jobs.
- 1,400 employers recruit engineering students each year
- One-on-one career advising
- Networking opportunities
Community and Support
College is more than just academics. Join the community and you’ll find friends, new perspectives and experiences—and support.
- Learning communites
- Clubs and student organizations
- Support resources and groups
So… what’s the difference?
Iowa State offers four computing-related engineering majors:
Computer, Cyber Security, Electrical and Software
Being an engineer at Iowa State means pushing yourself to reach your full potential and helping others along the way.
Katie Wolf, computer engineering
What can I study?
Computer engineers work in almost every industry, from autonomous vehicles and the power grid to healthcare, cyber security and manufacturing. They invent new technologies and make current devices faster, smaller, smarter and safer. They can:
- Improve internet security to protect information and stop hackers
- Design faster processors to realize high-definition graphics
- Develop biomedical equipment and systems to monitor patients
- Implement wireless sensor networks to make smarter robots
- Help create smart power grids to efficiently manage energy distribution
- Develop cutting-edge mobile and web applications
- Design computer techniques to sequence genes to better understand living organisms
For the 2024-25 academic year, our computer engineering students preferred these minors:
Computer Engineering at Iowa State
The computer engineering major at Iowa State offers an introduction to the latest technology, cutting-edge research and world-renowned faculty, making it one of the best programs in the country.
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Freshman Engineering Lab
Freshman Engineering Lab
Get hands-on experience during your first year in our freshman engineering lab. This is a great opportunity to create innovative programs that interface with video game systems and robotic programming.
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Specialty Areas of Study
Specialty Areas of Study
- Computing platforms and networking systems
- Secure and reliable computing and networking
- Software engineering systems
- Very large scale integration (VLSI) design
- Embedded system design
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Career Area options
Career Area options
Computer engineering is a highly interdisciplinary field with endless career options. In your future career, you will develop and work on technology you can’t even imagine today. Consider these career area options:
- Security and networking: Use your computer networking skills to make internet purchases safer, protect personal information and stop viruses from invading computers.
- Robotics: Create systems and software to automate our world. Give unmanned aerial vehicles and autonomous cars the ability to move around and navigate without direction from operators.
- Computing: Develop and improve the performance capabilities of mobile phones, tablets and the next generation of computers. Enhance computer system performance and reduce energy consumption.
The Future is What We Do!
Computer engineers imagine, invent and design essential hardware, software, systems and networks that connect our world and thus create a smarter, safer and better society for all.
Each year, Iowa State awards millions of dollars in scholarships to students. Learn more about scholarship opportunities for:
More information about cost of attendance and other types of aid is available from the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Orientation is for students who have accepted admission to Iowa State and plan to enroll in an upcoming term. During orientation you will be provided the opportunity to:
- meet with an academic advisor
- register for classes
- obtain your ISU card
- become familiar with the campus
- increase knowledge of important policies and procedures
The basic program for engineering majors is a set of courses common to all engineering curricula. Students normally enroll in the majority of the basic program courses during their first year.
Learn more about new student orientation and the first-year engineering program.
- 8,225 engineering students (fall 2024), the largest college on the Iowa State campus, with the support of 500+ engineering faculty and staff dedicated to teaching, research and student achievement.
- 75% of Iowa State engineering students graduate with engineering work experience. Internships and co-ops, learning communities, study abroad, 90+ engineering organizations give the hands-on experience to help shape student success.
- Our bachelor of science degree programs are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
- More college facts and highlights
What courses should I be taking in high school to prepare for a engineering degree?
Many high school students have access to college-level courses in high school. We know it’s in your nature to maximize your opportunities.
Learn more about what’s required, what’s recommended and what will transfer
What kind of a laptop computer will I need?
Iowa State University students are required to own or obtain a laptop computer appropriate to your discipline and program of study.
College of Engineering laptop computer recommendations
Can I study abroad?
Engineering International Programs can help you find study or work abroad experiences suited to your interests and goals. Expert staff can assist with course enrollment and transfers to keep you on track for graduation.
Learn more about Engineering International Programs
Are there ways to get practical work experience while at Iowa State?
Participation in a co-op or internship is a great way to gain real-world work experience. Students are employed by industry and government organizations in positions related to their major field of study. Unlike a typical part-time or summer job, an engineering co-op or internship must Involve the Practice of Engineering, and students must be paid. Co-ops and internships are not required by the college, but they are highly encouraged.
Learn more about Internships and Co-ops
There are also opportunities for students to work alongside professors doing research in areas related to their major field of study.
Learn more about Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Engineering Recruitment and Student Services
1300 Marston Hall, 533 Morrill Road, Ames, IA 50011
Phone: (515) 294-7186
Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
