North Carolina's computer engineering pathway prepares students for careers designing and developing computer hardware and systems. Students develop expertise in digital electronics, microprocessors, circuit design, and embedded systems. Growing demand for hardware engineers in electronics and tech sectors creates career opportunities.
Curriculum covers digital logic, microprocessor architecture, circuit design, embedded systems programming, and hardware-software integration. Students design and build circuits, program microcontrollers, and understand computer hardware fundamentals. Learning emphasizes both theory and practical hands-on experience.
Graduates work as computer engineers, hardware designers, embedded systems engineers, and electronics technicians for tech companies, electronics manufacturers, and government agencies. Many pursue advanced engineering degrees.
Computer Engineering at a Glance
2
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
North Carolina's computer engineering curriculum aligns with engineering and technology standards. Students complete 4-6 pathway units covering digital electronics and computer systems as defined by NC DPI.
Programs teach engineering design processes and hands-on circuit development. Students develop embedded systems and hardware design skills.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Computer Engineering Technology I | II21 |
| Computer Engineering Technology II | II22 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Electronics Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $37,560 - $59,400
Adjusted for cost of living: $39,898
Embedded Systems Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $80,190 - $148,760
Adjusted for cost of living: $113,618
Computer Hardware Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $73,930 - $169,880
Adjusted for cost of living: $139,792
Senior Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $80,190 - $148,760
Adjusted for cost of living: $113,618
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern at electronics manufacturers, tech companies, and embedded systems development firms throughout North Carolina.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps North Carolina CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
North Carolina Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with North Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as North Carolina standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in North Carolina
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