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Computer Engineering (Minor)

The computer engineering program is designed to provide a broad engineering background and a comprehensive foundation in the technical principles underlying the computer area. The technical core consists of coursework from electrical engineering to address hardware aspects of computer engineering and coursework from computer science to address software aspects. The curriculum builds on the hardware description language tools introduced in the sophomore year to master the design, test and synthesis of advanced digital circuits.

Computer Engineering (Minor)


Description


What is Computer Engineering at ODU like?

The computer engineering program is designed to provide a broad engineering background and a comprehensive foundation in the technical principles underlying the computer area. The technical core consists of coursework from electrical engineering to address hardware aspects of computer engineering and coursework from computer science to address software aspects. The curriculum builds on the hardware description language tools introduced in the sophomore year to master the design, test and synthesis of advanced digital circuits.

Program Highlights


What makes Computer Engineering at ODU unique?

  • The ECE department has research laboratories focusing on Applied Plasma Technology; Cybersecurity, Communications and Networking Innovation; Microelectronics and Thin Film Devices; Medical Imaging, Diagnosis, and Analysis; Power Research; Systems Analysis of Metabolic Physiology; Systems Research; Virginia Institute for Photovoltaics; and Vision Lab.

  • ECE faculty support University centers such as the Applied Research Center, the Frank Reidy Center of Bioelectrics, and the Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center.

  • Additional research facilities in the Hampton Roads area with ECE faculty collaboration include the National Institute of Aerospace, NASA Langley Research Center and Jefferson Lab.

Careers


What are some careers in this field?

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Data Entry Keyers

$32,530

MEDIAN SALARY


Operate data entry device, such as keyboard or photo composing perforator. Duties may include verifying data and preparing materials for printing.

Word Processors and Typists

$41,070

MEDIAN SALARY


Use word processor, computer or typewriter to type letters, reports, forms, or other material from rough draft, corrected copy, or voice recording. May perform other clerical duties as assigned.

Order Clerks

$35,330

MEDIAN SALARY


Receive and process incoming orders for materials, merchandise, classified ads, or services such as repairs, installations, or rental of facilities. Generally receives orders via mail, phone, fax, or other electronic means. Duties include informing customers of receipt, prices, shipping dates, and delays; preparing contracts; and handling complaints.

Computer User Support Specialists

$54,150

MEDIAN SALARY


Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, or via telephone or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.

Employers


Graduates from this major have gone to work at

BAE Systems, Booz Allen Hamilton, General Electric, Huntington Ingalls, Lockheed Martin, NASA, Naval Warfare Systems Command, Newport News Shipbuilding, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Siemens, and WR Systems.

Courses


What are some courses offered in Computer Engineering at ODU?

ECE 241:
Fundamentals of Computer Engineering


This course develops the foundation of computer engineering for computer engineers as well as an introductory breadth appropriate for electrical engineers. Class topics include computer information, digital design |combinational and sequential circuits), computer organization, and assembly language. The laboratory includes building digital circuits |focusing on programmable logic), assembly language programming, and system interfacing. The use of a hardware description language is employed in class and the laboratory to specify, simulate and synthesize digital circuits. Prerequisites: CS 150 or ENGN 150 and MATH 211 with a grade of C or above for both.

ECE 341:
Digital System Design


Tools and methodologies for top-down design of complex digital systems. Important topics include minimization, mixed logic, algorithmic state machines, microprogrammed controllers, creating and using a gold model, data and control path design and data movement and routing via buses. Design methodologies covered include managing the design process from concept to implementation, verification using a gold model, and introduction to design flow. A hardware description language is used extensively to demonstrate models and methodologies, and is also used in design exercises and projects. |offered fall, spring) Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in ECE 241.

ECE 346:
Microcontrollers


A hands-on approach to microprocessor and peripheral system programming, I/O interfacing, and interrupt management. A sequence of projects requiring the programming and integration of a microcontroller-based system is conducted. Project assignments require a microcontroller evaluation board and accessories supplied by the student. (offered spring) Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in ECE 241.

Requirements


What are the requirements to apply for Computer Engineering at ODU?

Students entering the Minor program in Computer Engineering should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)

  • To enter the program, students must have completed two college-level computer-programming courses (CS 150/ENGN 150, and CS 250 & CS 252 or equivalents).

  • An undergraduate minor in computer engineering may be obtained by successful completion of 13 or more credit hours of approved electrical or computer engineering coursework at the 200-, 300-, and 400- level. 

  • The chief departmental advisor for the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department must approve the precise course of study in the minor.

Cost

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Virginia Resident


Per Credit:

$ 374

Non-Resident


Per Credit:

$ 1,039

Active Duty Military Rate


Per Credit:

$ 250

Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States


Per Credit:

$ 407

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Scholarships


The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering maintains updated scholarship information on the Undergraduate Resources webpage.

Next Steps


I like this program. What are the next steps?

Contact


Need help applying?

Meet Your Enrollment Team

Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.

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ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR


Name:

Dr. Vishnu K. Lakdawala


Location:

217 KAUFMAN HALL, NORFOLK, VA, 23529



Office:

757-748-6744


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ASSOC DIR EXPERIENTIAL LEARNIN


Name:

Lisa Moser


Location:

2202 WEBB CENTER, NORFOLK, VA, 23529



Office:

757-683-4388


Undergraduate Admissions


Location:

1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529


Phone Office:

757-683-3685


Fax:

757-683-3255


Email:

admissions@odu.edu


International Admissions


Location:

2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529


Phone Office:

757-683-3701


Fax:

757-683-3651


Email:

intladm@odu.edu

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