Mar 28, 2024  
2015-2016 University Catalog 
    
2015-2016 University Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Engineering, M.S.


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(30 UNITS)

The Master of Science degree in Computer Engineering provides students with an in-depth knowledge in theory and a strong platform in practical applications in the hardware and software aspects of computer-based systems, and integrating both into usable computer systems. The degree prepares students for leadership roles in careers with industry, government and educational institutions. It integrates pertinent science and mathematics courses with engineering courses in order to develop engineers capable of designing and analyzing all aspects of modern computer and embedded systems.

Admission Requirements


Students must meet the CSU requirements for admission to a master’s degree program. Please consult the Graduate Admissions  section in this catalog for complete information. Additional requirements for admission to conditional classified standing in the program include:

  • Completion of a four-year college course of study and acceptable baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association, or completion of equivalent academic preparation as determined by appropriate campus authorities
  • Good academic standing at the last college or university attended
  • Minimum 2.5 grade-point average in an acceptable earned baccalaureate degree, or a minimum 2.5 GPA in the last 60 semester units (90 quarter units) attempted
  • Satisfactorily meeting the professional, personal, scholastic and other standards for graduate study, including qualifying examinations, as appropriate campus authorities may prescribe

In addition, for international students from countries where English is not the official language, a minimum TOEFL score of 550 on the paper-based version or 79 on the Internet-based version is required. A minimum International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 is acceptable.

Classified Standing


The following are required for classified standing status:

  • Approval of a formal study plan by the computer engineering program coordinator and Office of Graduate Studies. Students enrolled in the program must meet with an adviser prior to completing 13 units toward the M.S. degree to develop a study plan. The study plan must be approved by the program coordinator and Office of Graduate Studies
  • Satisfactory completion of no more than 13 units on the study plan
  • Fulfillment of the University Writing Requirement

Competency in written communication in English must be demonstrated by a passing score on the California State University Examination in Writing Proficiency (EWP) exam. The requirement must be satisfied before the student can be classified. Students who fail to pass the EWP test may complete ENGL 301  or ENGL 360  with a “C” (2.0) or better as an alternative to the EWP requirement.

Study Plan


Students must complete all requirements for the degree with an overall minimum GPA of 3.0. The requirements include 18 units of required core courses and 12 units of elective courses.

Required Core Courses (18 units)


Electives (12 units)


Select from one of the following options:

Option 1


  • One 400- or 500-level course from Group A or Group B (3)
  • Three 500-level courses from Group B (9)
  • Culminating experience: comprehensive exam

Option 2


  • One 400- or 500-level elective course from Group A or Group B (3)
  • Two 500-level elective courses from Group B (6)
  • Culminating experience: EGCP 597  (3)

Option 3


  • One 400- or 500-level elective course from Group A or Group B (3)
  • One 500-level elective course from Group B (3)
  • Culminating experience: EGCP 598  (6)

Group A Electives


Microprocessors and Microcomputer Systems

Total (30 units)


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