Your degree in Computer Engineering

Skills you’ll develop

While studying Computer Engineering, you're learning to apply your knowledge of computer architecture, networks, and communications to develop novel technology solutions from website chatbots to streamlining drug discovery. You’ll develop important skills to work at the interface of hardware and software systems.

These skills may include:

Application of computer hardware architecture and software design principles to build embedded systems (e.g., avionic systems, industrial robots, anti-lock brakes)
Research, design, development and testing of new hardware and software solutions that are technically competitive, cost-effective, and supportable
Design, coding, testing, debugging, and documenting high-quality desktop or web applications
Development of protocols and tools to conduct verification tests
Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning features in the design of computational devices and systems (e.g. smart personal assistants, ridesharing apps, mobile check deposits, drones)
Collaboration in cross-functional development teams towards a challenging common goal
Usage of specialized programming languages and open source tools including Ruby, Python, Java, HTML, JavaScript, LINUX, and MySQL

Career possibilities

Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields including computer systems and design, multimedia applications, embedded and autonomous systems, mobile computing, industrial instrumentation, data analytics, cybersecurity, healthcare, banking, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academic backgrounds, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas. Some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

Application architect
Artificial intelligence engineer
ASIC design engineer
Aviation systems software engineer
Back-end developer
Business intelligence developer
Business systems consultant
Cloud application architect
Computer architect
Computer engineer
Computer integrated manufacturing engineer
Computer systems network designer
Control and automation engineer
Cybersecurity analyst
Data communications specialist
Data scientist
Electronic business software developer
Embedded software engineer
Fibre-optic network designer
Firmware engineer
Full stack web developer

Game designer
Hardware development engineer
Informatics applications analyst
Information technology consultant
Machine learning research engineer
Microprocessor designer and application engineer
Mobile applications developer
Network test engineer
Operating systems programmer
Optical communications engineer
Radio systems engineer
Sales engineer, computer applications
Software architect
Software systems engineer
Special effects programmer
Systems security compliance analyst
Telecommunications engineer
Wireless communications network engineer
Front-end developer

Make the most of your program

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help clarify your values and interests.

UBC Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Student Branch
Attend technical workshops, participate in industry field trips, and join student competitions.
UBC Launchpad
Join other tech enthusiasts to develop new apps and apply cutting-edge technologies.
UBC Open Robotics
Collaborate with peers from multiple disciplines to work on unique and interesting robotics projects.
UBC Thunderbots
Design and create competitive robots to compete in the Small Size League of the International Robocup Federation.
UBC SailBot
Develop your technical skills and work as part of a team to design and construct an autonomous sailboat.
UBC Rocket
Gain hands-on technical experience in designing, manufacturing, and launching suborbital rockets.
UBC BizTech
Participate in case competitions and attend panels and showcases to connect with business and tech professionals.
UBC Emerging Media Lab
Attend a workshop or become a volunteer in emerging technologies, such as virtual reality.
UBC Competitive Programming Team
Collaborate with a group to work on algorithmic programming challenges and compete in the annual ACM ICPC competition.
entrepreneurship@UBC
Get the resources and mentorship support you need to take your startup idea to the next level.
UBC Engineering Co-op
Gain work experience in computer engineering between study terms.
UBC Esports Association
Attend events and meet people from various gaming communities across the Lower Mainland.
Snowbots
Join a multidisciplinary team to research and design autonomous navigation technology.
Code the Change Foundation
Use your technical skills to create innovative software solutions for non-profit organizations.
Creative Destruction Lab Artificial Intelligence Stream
Access resources and get mentorship support from experienced researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors.
Departmental research opportunities
Reach out directly to faculty members to ask about potential research positions.
Vancouver Startup Week
Attend the recruitment fair, network with professionals in the tech space, and tour startup workplaces.
#BCTECHSummit
Attend the conference, network with industry professionals, or join an innovation challenge.
Internet of Things (IoT) Events
View upcoming events and conferences on new technologies for different sectors.
Major League Hacking
Check out upcoming hackathons and job opportunities.
BCTech job board
Check out tech and engineering job opportunities within BC.
ACM Student Research Competition
Present your original research at this international student conference in term 2 and receive cash prizes and awards.

Build your network

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

Connect with alumni on LinkedIn

Find UBC Computer Engineering graduates on LinkedIn, to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths.

More information

From your Applied Science degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Engineering degree.