Computer Engineering and Embedded Systems

Computer engineering and embedded systems are about developing both hardware and software to work together for controlling specific dedicated devices. These devices, such as a traffic light controller, usually are dedicated in doing one common thing, are capable of interacting with the “real world,” and have real-time constraints. Computer and embedded systems engineers need to work with the underlying hardware logic circuit, interface microprocessors and controllers with external sensors and I/Os, and to program at the machine level.

Information Systems

Information Systems is the use of computers, storage and network equipments to create, store, manipulate, and transmit all forms of electronic data in the context of a business or enterprise. The study of information systems is the broad subject concerned with all aspects of managing and processing information within a large organization, which includes all layers of all systems within an organization – from the physical hardware to the operating systems, applications, databases and storage.

Web and Mobile Applications

Web programmers specialize in the development of World Wide Web applications or distributed network applications that are run on web servers, and accessed through a web browser. This typically requires programming on both the back-end server side, and the front-end user side. Programming the front-end involves implementing all the graphical and visual elements that users see and use in the web application, while programming the back-end requires knowledge about networking, database, web services and APIs that are necessary to power the front-end.
More and more computer applications are moving to the mobile platform. Mobile programmers write programs specifically for running on mobile devices. Unlike traditional programs, mobile apps are event driven, and are limited by the resources available on mobile devices such as speed, storage and screen size. Just as with web programmers, being able to design attractive graphical interface is a plus.

Networks and Cyber Security

Cyber security is about the protection of electronic information from unauthorized access. Cyber security covers all aspects of the computer system to prevent unauthorized access, change or destruction of electronic information, and at the same time to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information for authorized users. Understanding computer networks, computer operating system, data storage and transmission are crucial in the prevention of cyber attacks since these are the most vulnerable points for intrusion.

Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is a cross discipline between biology, computer science and mathematics, where huge amounts of biological data, particularly in genetics, are analyzed and interpreted. Common uses of bioinformatics include the identification of genes to better understand the genetic basis of disease.

Preparation for Graduate Study and Research

Graduate study is for those who like to do research in computer related cutting edge technology or work in academia. A good foundation in all aspects of computer science is a must. Cutting edge scientific research is usually a team effort. Having an advanced computer degree provides many options to be involved in specific research areas such as medical, robotic, space exploration, and others.