As a computer engineering major, you will learn how to design and manufacture computer hardware using the latest semiconductor chip technologies, which form the foundation of everything from automobiles to household appliances to defense systems. In addition, you will learn how to design and analyze systems that process, store and convey digital information, and to develop efficient software for them. Examples of systems that computer engineering majors explore include wearable devices, mobile computing devices like smartphones and tablets, personal computers, servers deployed in the cloud, and many types of embedded systems. You can also specialize in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science, and earn a named option on your transcript.
How to Get in
Admission to the College as a First-Year Student
Students applying to UW–Madison need to indicate an engineering major as their first choice in order to be considered for direct admission to the College of Engineering. Being directly admitted to a major means students will start in the program of their choice in the College of Engineering and will need to meet progression requirements at the end of the first year to guarantee advancement in that program.
Cross-Campus Transfer to Engineering
UW–Madison students in other schools and colleges on campus must meet minimum admission requirements for admission consideration to engineering degree programs. Cross-campus admission is competitive and selective, and the grade point average expectations may increase as demand trends change. The student’s overall academic record at UW–Madison is also considered. Students apply to their intended engineering program by submitting the online application by stated deadlines for spring and fall. The College of Engineering offers an online information tutorial and drop-in advising for students to learn about the cross-campus transfer process.
Off-Campus Transfer to Engineering
With careful planning, students at other accredited institutions can transfer coursework that will apply toward engineering degree requirements at UW–Madison. Off-campus transfer applicants are considered for direct admission to the College of Engineering by applying to the Office of Admissions with an engineering major listed as their first choice. Those who are admitted to their intended engineering program must meet progression requirements at the point of transfer or within their first two semesters at UW–Madison to guarantee advancement in that program. A minimum of 30 credits in residence in the College of Engineering is required after transferring, and all students must meet all requirements for their major in the college. Transfer admission to the College of Engineering is competitive and selective, and students who have exceeded the 80 credit limit at the time of application are not eligible to apply.
The College of Engineering has dual degree programs with select four-year UW System campuses. Eligible dual degree applicants are not subject to the 80 credit limit.
Off-campus transfer students are encouraged to discuss their interests, academic background, and admission options with the Transfer & Academic Program Manager in the College of Engineering: ugtransfer@engr.wisc.edu or 608-262-2473.
Second Bachelor's Degree
The College of Engineering does not accept second undergraduate degree applications. Second degree students might explore the Biological Systems Engineering program at UW–Madison, an undergraduate engineering degree elsewhere, or a graduate program in the College of Engineering.
University General Education Requirements
All undergraduate students at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are required to fulfill a minimum set of common university general education requirements to ensure that every graduate acquires the essential core of an undergraduate education. This core establishes a foundation for living a productive life, being a citizen of the world, appreciating aesthetic values, and engaging in lifelong learning in a continually changing world. Various schools and colleges will have requirements in addition to the requirements listed below. Consult your advisor for assistance, as needed. For additional information, see the university Undergraduate General Education Requirements section of the Guide.
| General Education |
* The mortarboard symbol appears before the title of any course that fulfills one of the Communication Part A or Part B, Ethnic Studies, or Quantitative Reasoning Part A or Part B requirements. |
Summary of Requirements
The following curriculum applies to students admitted to the computer engineering degree program.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 19 | |
| Science | 20-21 | |
| Computer Engineering Core | 33 | |
| Computer Engineering Advanced Electives | 16 | |
| Professional Electives | 9 | |
| Communication Skills | 6 | |
| Liberal Studies | 15 | |
| Free Elective | 2 | |
| Total Credits | 120-121 | |
Mathematics
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 221 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry 1 | 5 |
| or MATH 217 | Calculus with Algebra and Trigonometry II | |
| MATH 222 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry 2 | 4 |
| MATH 234 | Calculus--Functions of Several Variables 1 | 4 |
| MATH/COMP SCI 240 | Introduction to Discrete Mathematics | 3 |
| or MATH/COMP SCI/STAT 475 | Introduction to Combinatorics | |
| Probability/Statistics Elective (select one) | 3 | |
| Introduction to Theory and Methods of Mathematical Statistics I | ||
| Introduction to the Theory of Probability | ||
| Introduction to Random Signal Analysis and Statistics | ||
| Total Credits | 19 | |
Science
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COMP SCI 300 | Programming II | 3 |
| COMP SCI 400 | Programming III | 3 |
| PHYSICS 201 | General Physics 1 | 5 |
| or PHYSICS 207 | General Physics | |
| or PHYSICS 247 | A Modern Introduction to Physics | |
| PHYSICS 202 | General Physics | 5 |
| or PHYSICS 208 | General Physics | |
| or PHYSICS 248 | A Modern Introduction to Physics | |
| Select one of the following: | 4-5 | |
| Advanced General Chemistry | ||
| General Chemistry I | ||
| General Chemistry II | ||
| Total Credits | 20-21 | |
Computer Engineering Core
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| E C E 203 | Signals, Information, and Computation | 3 |
| E C E 210 | Introductory Experience in Electrical Engineering | 2 |
| E C E 222 | Electrodynamics I | 4 |
| E C E 230 | Circuit Analysis | 4 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 252 | Introduction to Computer Engineering | 3 |
| E C E 270 | Circuits Laboratory I | 1 |
| E C E 315 | Introductory Microprocessor Laboratory | 1 |
| E C E 340 | Electronic Circuits I | 3 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 352 | Digital System Fundamentals | 3 |
| E C E 353 | Introduction to Microprocessor Systems | 3 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 354 | Machine Organization and Programming | 3 |
| E C E 551 | Digital System Design and Synthesis | 3 |
| Total Credits | 33 | |
Computer Engineering Advanced Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Circuits Elective | 3 | |
| Electronic Circuits II | ||
| Applied Communications Systems | ||
| Analog MOS Integrated Circuit Design | ||
| Introduction to Microelectromechanical Systems | ||
| Integrated Circuit Design | ||
| Digital Circuits and Components | ||
| Systems Software Elective 1 | 3 | |
| Software Engineering | ||
| Introduction to Programming Languages and Compilers | ||
| Introduction to Operating Systems | ||
| Database Management Systems: Design and Implementation | ||
| Capstone Design | 4 | |
| Embedded Microprocessor System Design | ||
| Mobile Computing Laboratory 2 | ||
| Capstone Design in Electrical and Computer Engineering | ||
| Digital Engineering Laboratory | ||
| CMPE Elective I | 3 | |
| Communication Networks | ||
| Introduction to Computer Architecture | ||
| Testing and Testable Design of Digital Systems | ||
| Design Automation of Digital Systems | ||
| CMPE Elective II | 3 | |
Select from COMP SCI 400 - COMP SCI 699 2 | ||
| Total Credits | 16 | |
- 1
If a 4-credit course is taken, one credit may be used toward satisfying the professional elective and free elective requirement.
- 2
E C E 454 Mobile Computing Laboratory and COMP SCI 407 Foundations of Mobile Systems and Applications cannot both be taken for degree credit.
Professional Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Electives | 9 | |
| Courses to be taken in an area of professional interest. The following courses are acceptable as professional electives if the courses are not used to meet any other degree requirements. | ||
| Cooperative Education Program (One co-op credit can count towards professional electives.) | ||
| Data Science & Engineering | ||
| Introduction to Solid State Electronics | ||
| Electrodynamics II | ||
| Signals and Systems | ||
| Introduction to Random Signal Analysis and Statistics | ||
| Feedback Control Systems | ||
| State Space Systems Analysis | ||
| Microelectronic Devices | ||
| Electronic Circuits II (may be used if not already used as an Electronic Circuits Advanced Elective) | ||
| Electromechanical Energy Conversion | ||
| Electric Power Processing for Alternative Energy Systems | ||
E C E courses numbered 370 and higher | ||
COMP SCI courses numbered 400 and higher | ||
| Techniques in Ordinary Differential Equations | ||
| Linear Algebra and Differential Equations 1 | ||
| Applied Mathematical Analysis | ||
| Applied Mathematical Analysis | ||
| Elementary Matrix and Linear Algebra 1 | ||
| Linear Algebra | ||
MATH courses numbered 400 and higher | ||
STAT courses numbered 400 and higher | ||
Any biological sciences course that is designated as intermediate or advanced level | ||
Any physical science course that is designated as intermediate or advanced level | ||
Any natural science course that is designated as advanced level, except that math, computer sciences, and statistics courses must follow the above criteria | ||
Engineering courses numbered 300 and higher that are not E C E or cross-listed with E C E | ||
Up to six credits of Professional Electives can be taken from School of Business classes numbered 300 and higher. | ||
| Special Topics (Wearable Technologies) | ||
| Current Topics in Dance: Workshop (Making Digital Lighting Controls) | ||
- 1
Students may only earn degree credit for MATH 320 Linear Algebra and Differential Equations or MATH 340 Elementary Matrix and Linear Algebra, not both.
Communication Skills
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL 100 | Introduction to College Composition | 3 |
| or LSC 100 | Science and Storytelling | |
| or COM ARTS 100 | Introduction to Speech Composition | |
| or COM ARTS 181 | Elements of Speech-Honors Course | |
| or ESL 118 | Academic Writing II | |
| INTEREGR 397 | Engineering Communication | 3 |
| Total Credits | 6 | |
Liberal Studies Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| College of Engineering Liberal Studies Requirements | ||
| Complete requirements 1 | 15 | |
| Total Credits | 15 | |
- 1
All liberal studies credits must be identified with the letter H, S, L, or Z. Language courses are acceptable without the letter and are considered humanities. Note: See an E C E advisor and/or the EE Curriculum Guide for additional information.
Honors in Undergraduate Research Program
Qualified undergraduates may earn an Honors in Research designation in their transcript. The Honors in Research program gives an undergraduate the opportunity to participate in a research project under the direction of a faculty member. It is expected that the student will be actively involved in research that could lead to new knowledge. The project can be independent or a component of a larger team effort.
Admission Requirements include:
1. Complete at least one semester on the UW-Madison campus,
2. Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5,
3. Major in Computer Engineering (CMPE) or Electrical Engineering (EE),
4. Identify an ECE faculty advisor who is willing to supervise the research project.
Students admitted to the program should register for one to three credits of E C E 489 Honors in Research. A thesis worth three credits of E C E 489 Honors in Research is required. The thesis is a written document that details the objectives of the project, the methods used to carry out the research, and the results of the research activity. The thesis must be approved by the faculty advisor and the student is encouraged to present a seminar.
The “Honors in Research” designation will be awarded to graduates who:
1. Complete either the CMPE or EE degree requirements.
2. Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.3 at graduation.
3. Complete a total of at least six credits of E C E 489 Honors in Research.
4. Receive a final grade of at least B in E C E 489 Honors in Research.
Named Option
Total Degree Credits: 120
University Degree Requirements
| Total Degree | To receive a bachelor's degree from UW–Madison, students must earn a minimum of 120 degree credits. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 degree credits. Students should consult with their college or department advisor for information on specific credit requirements. |
| Residency | Degree candidates are required to earn a minimum of 30 credits in residence at UW–Madison. "In residence" means on the UW–Madison campus with an undergraduate degree classification. “In residence” credit also includes UW–Madison courses offered in distance or online formats and credits earned in UW–Madison Study Abroad/Study Away programs. |
| Quality of Work | Undergraduate students must maintain the minimum grade point average specified by the school, college, or academic program to remain in good academic standing. Students whose academic performance drops below these minimum thresholds will be placed on academic probation. |
Learning Outcomes
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
- an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
- an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
- an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
- an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
- an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
Four-Year Plan
Sample Four-Year Plan
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MATH 221 | 5 | MATH 222 | 4 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 252 | 3 | PHYSICS 201 | 5 |
or Communications A | E C E 210 | 2 | |
| CHEM 103, 104, or 109 | 4-5 | Communications A or | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | ||
| 15-16 | 14 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| E C E 203 | 3 | MATH/COMP SCI 240 | 3 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 352 | 3 | E C E 222 | 4 |
| MATH 234 | 4 | E C E 230 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 202 | 5 | E C E 270 | 1 |
| COMP SCI 300 | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| E C E 353 | 3 | E C E 315 | 1 |
| E C E 340 | 3 | E C E 551 | 3 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 354 | 3 | Circuits Elective | 3 |
| COMP SCI 400 | 3 | Probability and Statistics Elective | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | INTEREGR 397 | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| E C E 453, 454, 455, or 554 | 4 | COMP SCI/E C E 506, 536, 537, or 564 | 3 |
| Computer Engineering Elective | 3 | Computer Engineering Elective | 3 |
| Professional Elective | 3 | Professional Elective | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | Liberal Studies Elective | 3 |
| Professional Elective | 3 | Free Elective | 2 |
| 16 | 14 | ||
| Total Credits 120-121 | |||
Advising and Careers
Advising
Every College of Engineering undergraduate has an assigned academic advisor. Academic advisors support and coach students through their transition to college and their academic program all the way through graduation.
Advisors help students navigate the highly structured engineering curricula and course sequencing, working with them to select courses each semester.
When facing a challenge or making a plan toward a goal, students can start with their academic advisor. There are many outstanding resources at UW–Madison, and academic advisors are trained to help students navigate these resources. Advisors not only inform students about the various resources, but they help reduce the barriers between students and campus resources to help students feel empowered to pursue their goals and communicate their needs.
Students can find their assigned advisor in their MyUW Student Center.
Engineering Career Services
Engineering Career Services (ECS) assists students in finding work-based learning experiences such as co-ops and summer internships, exploring and applying to graduate or professional school, and finding full-time professional employment.
ECS offers two large career fairs per year, assists students with resume building and developing interviewing skills, hosts skill-building workshops, and meets one-on-one with students to discuss offer negotiations.
Students are encouraged to engage with the ECS office early in their academic careers. For more information on ECS programs and workshops, visit: https://ecs.wisc.edu.
People
Professors
Susan Hagness (Chair)
Nader Behdad
Daniel Botez
Azadeh Davoodi (Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies)
John A. Gubner (Associate Chair for Operations)
Hongrui Jiang (Associate Chair for Graduate Studies)
Mikhail Kats
Irena Knezevic (Associate Chair for Academic Affairs)
Bernard Lesieutre
Daniel Ludois (Interim Associate Chair for Graduate Studies, Aug-Dec 2024)
Zhenqiang Ma
Luke J. Mawst
Robert Nowak
Umit Ogras
Parameswaran Ramanathan
Bulent Sarlioglu
William A. Sethares
Daniel van der Weide
Giri Venkataramanan
Amy E. Wendt
Zongfu Yu
Associate Professors
Kassem Fawaz (Associate Chair for Research)
Paul H. Milenkovic
Dimitris Papailiopoulos
Line Roald
Joshua San Miguel
Andreas Velten
Assistant Professors
Joseph Andrews
Jennifer Choy
Grigoris Chrysos
Jeremy Coulson
Dominic Gross
Chirag Gupta
Mahima Gupta
Tsung-Wei Huang
Robert Jacobberger
Akhilesh Jaiswal
Bhuvana Krishnaswamy
Kangwook Lee
Chu Ma
Pedro Morgado
Shubhra Pasayat
Jinia Roy
Manish Singh
Haihan Sun
Eric Tervo
Ramya Korlakai Vinayak
Ying Wang
Feng Ye
Lei Zhou
Teaching Faculty
Mark C. Allie
Eric Hoffman
Joe Krachey
Srdjan Milicic
Associate Teaching Professor
Steven Fredette
Assistant Teaching Professors
Eduardo Arvelo
Setareh Behroozi
Nathan Strachen
See also Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty Directory.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Electrical, Computer, Communication, Telecommunication(s), and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.
Program Educational Objectives for the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Within the first few years after graduation, our graduates should be engaged in activities such as:
-
Employment in industry, government, academia, or non-profit using their degree knowledge or skills for professional functions such as teaching, research and development, quality control, technical marketing, intellectual property management, or sales. Graduates may eventually reach a leadership position supervising others.
-
Continuing education through self-study or short courses and workshops through their employer, local or online educational institutions, or attendance at professional events such as conferences.
-
Taking a principal role in starting a new business or product line.
-
Pursuing a postgraduate degree.
Note: Undergraduate Student Outcomes, number of degrees conferred, and enrollment data are made publicly available at the Computer Engineering Undergraduate Program website. (In this Guide, the program's Student Outcomes are available through the "Learning Outcomes" tab.)