2008-2009 Catalog - United States Air Force Academy

computer engineering major
Computer systems are an integral part of every aspect of Air Force operations. These systems range from embedded devices
that perform a specific function in a weapon system to massively-parallel supercomputers used to simulate an air campaign.
Because today’s computing systems are so sophisticated a new field of engineering, computer engineering, has evolved.
Computer engineers take a true “systems” view toward computing design, combining the algorithm-design skills of a computer
scientist with the hardware-design talents of an electrical engineer. Computer Engineering majors at the Academy acquire these
skills through an interdisciplinary approach that intermingles courses from Computer Science with offerings from Electrical
and Computer Engineering. This course mix provides the broad, varied background an engineer needs to succeed in this
dynamic field.
Students who successfully complete the Computer Engineering major are awarded a Bachelor of Science in Computer
Engineering degree that is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050,
Baltimore MD 21202-4012, telephone: (410) 347-7700. Computer Engineering is an excellent choice if you are interested in an
advanced degree. As a computer engineer, your knowledge and skill will be in high demand in the Air Force and in society as a
whole.
The goal of the Computer Engineering program is to graduate leaders of character who:
• Possess breadth of integrated, fundamental knowledge in the basic sciences, engineering, the humanities, and social
sciences; and depth of knowledge in Computer Engineering.
• Can communicate effectively.
• Can work effectively with others.
• Are independent thinkers and learners.
• Can apply their knowledge and skills to solve Air Force engineering problems, both well- and ill-defined.
• Know and practice their ethical and professional responsibilities as embodied in the Air Force Core Values.
Upon completion of the Computer Engineering program each graduate shall demonstrate satisfactory:
• Application of the fundamental concepts of computer engineering to solve engineering problems.
• Laboratory techniques including procedures, recording, and analysis.
• Design, fabrication, and test techniques.
• Use of contemporary computer engineering analysis, design, and test tools.
• Written and oral communication skills.
• Knowledge of ethical and professional responsibilities.
• Breadth and depth of knowledge and skills in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering,
mathematics, and other disciplines necessary to effectively identify and solve the types of complex,
multidisciplinary problems they will face as Air Force engineers.
• Knowledge of the benefits and skills needed to engage in life-long learning.
• Ability to be effective multidisciplinary team members.
• Skills to be independent learners while knowing when to seek assistance.
• Knowledge of the role of Air Force engineering officers in our global society.
• Knowledge of contemporary social, political, military, and engineering issues.
Suggested Course Sequence
3rd-Class Year 2nd-Class Year 1st-Class Year
Chem 200 Aero Engr 315 Academy/Comp Engr Opt
Comp Sci 210 Beh Sci 310 Astro Engr 410
Comp Sci 220 Biology 315 Comp Engr 463
Econ 201 Comp Engr 373 Comp Engr 464
El Engr 231 El Engr 321 Comp Sci 467
El Engr 281 El Engr 382 Comp Sci 483
El Engr 332 El Engr 383 El Engr 485
Engr Mech 220 English 211 English 411
Math 245 Law 220 History 302
MSS 200 Math 340 MSS 400
Physics 215 Math 356 Philos 310
Pol Sci 211 Sys Opt Engr 311 Soc Sci 412
United States Air Force Academy Catalog 75