Computer Engineering MSCPE
Degree Awarded: Master of Science in Computer Engineering (MSCPE)
Minimum Required Credits: 30.0
Co-op Option: Available for full-time, on-campus master's-level students
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 14.0901
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 15-1132
About the Program
Drexel's Master of Science in Computer Engineering program equips students with an advanced understanding of the principles and practices that drive innovation in computer engineering. Students develop:
- A strong foundation in computer systems, hardware and software integration, algorithms, and digital design.
- Expertise in system design, implementation, and analysis.
- The ability to apply engineering theory to solve real-world technological challenges.
- Adaptability to emerging technologies and industry trends.
- A commitment to lifelong learning, teamwork, and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to lead in a rapidly evolving global environment.
Graduates emerge with advanced technical skills and a holistic understanding of computer engineering's interdisciplinary nature, ready to innovate across a range of application areas.
The program offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum that can be tailored to individual goals through consultation with an academic advisor. Students complete 30 credits, combining core coursework with opportunities for specialization in key areas of computer engineering.
Students may engage in up to 6 elective credits of faculty-supervised research. Research and project-based learning foster creativity, problem-solving, and innovation through direct engagement with current challenges in the field.
Full-time on-campus students are eligible for the Graduate Co-op Program, a distinctive Drexel experience that integrates academic learning with a 6-month, full-time professional placement. This hands-on opportunity allows students to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings and gain meaningful industry experience before graduation.
Graduates are well-prepared for:
- Advanced roles in software and hardware design, embedded systems, networking, cybersecurity, and computing technology across industries such as telecommunications, defense, healthcare, and finance.
- Positions that require technical expertise and innovative problem-solving skills in both industrial and academic contexts.
- Pursuit of doctoral study in computer engineering or related disciplines.
The program's focus on interdisciplinary learning, research, and experiential education helps students build both the technical and professional foundation necessary for career growth and leadership.
Drexel's MS in Computer Engineering stands out for its experiential, flexible, and career-focused approach. Students benefit from:
- A customizable curriculum that accommodates diverse interests.
- Integration of experiential learning opportunities that connect theory to practice.
- A learning environment shaped by faculty experts engaged in state-of-the-art research and industry collaboration.
- Access to Philadelphia’s thriving technology and innovation ecosystem, providing numerous opportunities for networking and professional development.
This combination of academic rigor, industry engagement, and experiential learning makes Drexel graduates competitive in the changing field of computer engineering.
Additional Information
For more information about this program, please contact the School of Engineering
Admission Requirements
Applicants should have an undergraduate degree equivalent to a US bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or electrical engineering. Students holding degrees in other engineering and science disciplines with appropriate coursework or training will also be considered.
Appropriate coursework includes experience with the following topics: Software (advanced programming and operating systems); Computer Architecture (digital systems design, computer organization and architecture); Algorithms and Data Structures; Computer Networks. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for the last two years of undergraduate studies, as well as for any subsequent graduate-level work.
The GRE general test is optional for all applicants. TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo is required if the language of instruction of your previous degree was not English.
Degree Requirements
| Core/Foundational Courses | ||
| Select three of the following courses: | 9.0 | |
| Computer Hardware Design | ||
| Computer Networking | ||
| Introduction to VLSI Design | ||
| Pattern Recognition | ||
| Applied Machine Learning Engineering | ||
| Subject-Area Focused Courses | ||
| Select five courses from the following subject areas with at least two courses in the same focus area: | 15.0 | |
| Computer Architecture | ||
| Computer Hardware Design | ||
| Computer Architecture | ||
| Neuromorphic Computing | ||
| Computer Systems | ||
| Fault-Tolerant Systems | ||
| Alternate Computing | ||
| Parallel Programming | ||
| Embedded Systems | ||
| Digital Systems Design | ||
| Networking | ||
| Computer Networking | ||
| Web Security | ||
| Secure Networking | ||
| VLSI Design | ||
| Introduction to VLSI Design | ||
| ASIC Design | ||
| Electronic Design Automation for VLSI Circuits | ||
| Hardware Security and Trust | ||
| Custom VLSI Design and Analysis | ||
| Optional Thesis | ||
| Select one of the following options: | 6.0 | |
| Non-Thesis | ||
Select any ECE (Electrical and Computer Engineering) 5000-7997 level course 1 | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Master's Thesis | ||
| Optional Co-op Experience | ||
| Co-op is an option for this degree for full-time on-campus students. Students choosing this option will be required to complete COOP 5000 as preparation for their co-op experience. | 0.0 | |
| Total Credits | 30.0 | |
- 1
Elective courses from other subject codes may be taken with department approval.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
- Design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data
- Design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability
- Function on multidisciplinary teams
- Identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
- Understand professional and ethical responsibility
- Communicate effectively
- Understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context
- Recognize the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
- Attain knowledge of contemporary issues
- Use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice