SILICON OR SOFTWARE?
Choosing your ECE major
SILICON OR SOFTWARE?
Choosing your ECE major
Electrical Engineering
Focuses on the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Electrical engineers design, develop, and test electrical equipment, from microchips to power station generators.
Computer Engineering
Blends electrical engineering and computer science. Computer engineers design and develop computer systems, hardware, and software, from embedded systems to networks and AI devices.
Biomedical Engineering
Combines engineering principles with medical and biological sciences. Biomedical engineers design medical devices, develop diagnostic tools, and improve healthcare technologies.
Why Choose Weber State?
Weber State University offers hands-on learning, small class sizes, and strong industry connections. Our graduates are prepared for rewarding careers and advanced study in engineering fields.
- State-of-the-art labs and facilities
- Internship and research opportunities
- Supportive faculty and student organizations
- Excellent job placement rates
Coursework Differences
Electrical Engineering
- Core focus: electronics, electromagnetics, power systems, signals & systems
- Advanced electives in communications, control systems, and semiconductors
- Strong math and physics foundation
Computer Engineering
- Core focus: digital logic, computer architecture, embedded systems, programming
- Courses in software engineering, networking, and hardware/software integration
- Blend of electrical engineering and computer science courses
Biomedical Engineering
- Core focus: biology, physiology, medical instrumentation, signal processing
- Courses in life sciences, signal processing, and electrical device design
- Interdisciplinary mix of engineering and life sciences
Each major has a unique blend of required courses and electives. Explore the course maps to see detailed degree requirements and sample 4-year plans.
Electrical Engineering vs. Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineering (EE) and Computer Engineering (CE) share a strong technical foundation but focus on different aspects of technology. EE is centered on the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Students in EE learn about power systems, analog and digital circuits, communications, and control systems. They often work on projects involving energy, signal processing, and large-scale electrical systems.
Computer Engineering bridges the gap between hardware and software. CE students study digital logic, microprocessors, embedded systems, and computer architecture, along with programming and software development. Their work often involves designing and optimizing computers, smart devices, and systems that require both hardware and software expertise.
In summary: Electrical Engineering is broader in electrical and electronic systems, while Computer Engineering specializes in computers and digital systems, blending hardware and software skills.
Computer Engineering vs. Computer Science
Computer Engineering (CE) and Computer Science (CS) are closely related but have distinct focuses. Computer Engineering blends hardware and software, emphasizing the design and development of computer systems, embedded devices, and hardware-software integration. CE students learn about digital logic, microprocessors, circuits, and low-level programming, preparing them to build and optimize the physical components of computers and smart devices.
Computer Science centers on software, algorithms, and theory. CS students focus on programming, data structures, artificial intelligence, databases, and software engineering. They are experts in designing, analyzing, and implementing software solutions for a wide range of applications, from web development to database management.
In short: Computer Engineering bridges hardware and software, while Computer Science is primarily about software and computational theory.
Making a Decision: EE vs. CE
Choosing between Electrical Engineering (EE) and Computer Engineering (CE) can take time, and it's normal to explore both before deciding. Early in your studies, you'll take foundational courses common to both majors, such as calculus, physics, programming, circuits, and digital logic. As you progress, you'll discover which subjects and projects excite you most. Meeting with your department advisor is key—they can help you map out a path to graduation and make sure your course selections keep your options open.
Switching between EE and CE is often possible with minimal extra coursework during your first few semesters. However, as you advance and take more specialized classes, changing majors may require additional time. It's important to plan ahead and seek advice from faculty, advisors, and professionals in the field to understand where your interests and career goals align.
Remember: The boundary between EE and CE is not always clear-cut. Think of these majors as points along a spectrum: Computer Science (CS) is at one end, focusing on abstract concepts, algorithms, and software. Electrical Engineering (EE) is at the other, emphasizing hardware, circuits, and physical systems. Computer Engineering (CE) sits in the middle, blending both hardware and software, and offering a balance between the two worlds.
Both the BSEE and BSCE degrees can lead to similar careers, and your specific course choices will shape your expertise and employability. Recruiters often look beyond your degree title to the courses you've completed, so tailor your electives to match your interests and desired career path.
In short: Take time to explore, talk to advisors and professionals, and choose courses that match your interests. The line between EE and CE is flexible, and your course selection is a powerful tool in shaping your future career.
Weber State BME vs. Traditional EE
The Biomedical Engineering (BME) degree at Weber State is unique in its strong emphasis on electrical engineering and instrumentation, setting it apart from many traditional BME programs that focus more on biology or chemistry. If you are interested in applying electrical engineering principles to solve problems in healthcare, medical devices, and diagnostics, this program offers a focused path.
Compared to a traditional Electrical Engineering (EE) degree, which prepares you for a broad range of industries—such as power, communications, and electronics—the Weber State BME degree is ideal if you want to work at the intersection of engineering and medicine. You'll gain a solid foundation in circuits, signal processing, and instrumentation, while also learning the life sciences relevant to interface with the human body as well as medical technology and regulatory frameworks.
This makes the BME program a great choice for students who are passionate about healthcare innovation, medical devices, or working in multidisciplinary teams with clinicians and scientists. If you want to design the next generation of medical equipment or diagnostic tools, and you enjoy hands-on work with electronics, Weber State's BME degree is a strong fit.
A traditional Electrical Engineering (EE) degree provides a broader foundation in electrical and electronic systems, making graduates highly employable across a wide range of industries beyond healthcare, such as power generation, telecommunications, aerospace, and manufacturing. If you are interested in keeping your career options open to fields outside medical technology, a traditional EE degree may offer greater flexibility and broader job prospects.
In short: Choose Weber State BME if you want a career in medical technology with a strong electrical engineering and instrumentation focus, while a traditional EE degree is best if you want a broader range of electrical engineering career options.