Electrical and computer engineers have contributed to some of the most remarkable technological advances of the last 50 years including the personal computer, the Internet, digital audio and video, and fiber optic and wireless communications. While many of these technologies continue to mature, new technologies such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, and alternative energy are rapidly emerging and promise to provide equally impressive contributions to technology and society.

Work in electrical and computer engineering includes computers, communications, optics, digital and analog microelectronics, power generation and distribution, robotics, manufacturing, integrated circuit design, microwaves, and speech and image processing.

Electrical and computer engineers, like all engineers, are problem solvers. Whether working as a researcher in an emerging technology, a designer in a fast-paced high-tech company, a technical manager responsible for a team of engineers, a technical salesperson trying to find customer solutions, or as an entrepreneur trying to bring new technology to market, ECEs are in an exciting and dynamic field.

Lafayette’s curriculum builds on the fundamentals in the physical and engineering sciences, mathematics, and computer science to prepare students to enter the work force or graduate school well prepared to meet the exciting challenges that both electrical engineering and computer engineering have to offer.

Junior and senior electrical and computer engineering majors are encouraged to work on independent study and research projects with faculty. Qualified students may also do honors research in their senior year.

Students may seek election to Tau Beta Pi, the engineering national honor society, and Eta Kappa Nu, the electrical engineering honor society. Majors may also join the student chapter of IEEE, Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.

Students have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester. Many ECE majors elect to pursue a minor in economics, computer science, bioengineering, or mathematics.