Choosing Between Engineering Majors

Which Engineering Degree is Right for Me?

It’s one of the first big questions students ask when exploring a future in technology and innovation. With so many exciting and evolving disciplines, how do you choose the right engineering path?

At Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, students are encouraged to explore their interests and empowered to specialize in them. All three engineering programs — computer, electrical and software — are built on a strong foundation of hands-on learning, cutting-edge research and personalized instruction through small class sizes. But when all the options sound compelling, how do you decide?

Let’s break down how these three degrees differ — and how to find the one that aligns with your goals.

Which Major is Right for You?

As one of the nation's top undergraduate engineering schools, Embry‑Riddle’s Prescott Campus delivers a world-class education through its Department of Computer, Electrical & Software Engineering (CESE).

Choosing between these three engineering disciplines depends on your interests and long-term career goals:

• The Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering is ideal if you’re curious about how computers work from the inside out, including subjects like hardware design, embedded systems and integration with software.
• The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering is a great fit if you’re fascinated by power systems, signal processing or wireless communication, and want a broad foundation with real-world applications.
• The Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering is best for students who love coding, problem solving and building digital tools that power everything from apps to autonomous vehicles.

No matter your path, all three degrees equip students with in-demand skills, hands-on experience and the adaptability needed to lead in a rapidly evolving technology landscape. 

Computer Engineering: Where Hardware Meets Software

If you’re drawn to both the physical components of computers and the software that drives them, computer engineering may be your calling. The B.S. in Computer Engineering blends hardware and software into one dynamic degree.

Students explore everything from digital logic and circuit design to embedded systems, cloud computing and robotics. You’ll gain hands-on experience with both analog and digital technologies and learn to design the systems that power modern tech, from smart devices to aerospace applications.

Typical areas of focus include:

• Embedded systems
• Robotics and automation
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Digital system design
• Hardware-software integration

Coursework covers logic design, computer architecture, digital signal processing and C/C++ programming — all within a collaborative, lab-based environment.

Electrical Engineering: Powering Modern Innovation

Interested in how electricity powers the world — from clean energy to communication networks? The B.S. in Electrical Engineering offers a broad, impactful education in energy systems, electronics and complex technologies.

At Embry‑Riddle, students gain a deep understanding of circuit theory, signal processing, control systems and communications technology. The curriculum is hands on from day one, including labs and a collaborative capstone project that mirrors real engineering workflows.

Areas of expertise include:

• Circuit design and analysis
• Power generation and distribution
• Control systems
• Communications technology
• Electromagnetic fields and systems

This major is ideal for students who want to design and manage the systems that keep our infrastructure, aircraft and clean energy solutions running.

Software Engineering: Designing the Digital World

If writing code and building software systems is where your passion lies, consider the B.S. in Software Engineering. This program prepares students to design secure, scalable digital systems used in aviation, business, gaming and government.

You’ll build advanced programming skills and dive into software architecture, project management, cybersecurity and AI through hands-on, high-impact projects. From autonomous flight control to simulation systems, you’ll learn to develop technologies that perform in real-world, high-stakes environments.

Focus areas include:

• Software design and architecture
• Cybersecurity and assurance
• Mobile and web development
• Software testing and debugging
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning

With training in multiple programming languages, agile development, and user-centered design, graduates are well-prepared for careers in app development, enterprise software, cloud computing and more.

How Do These Majors Compare?

Though all three programs are rooted in mathematics, critical thinking and problem solving, they each support a different slice of the tech world:

• Computer Engineering: Ideal for students interested in integrating hardware and software to develop smart systems like robots, embedded devices and IoT platforms.
• Electrical Engineering: Suited for those excited about working on power systems, signal processing or complex electronics in aerospace, automotive or energy sectors.
• Software Engineering: Best for those passionate about coding, building digital tools and developing software systems that drive innovation across industries.

Each degree program at Embry‑Riddle Prescott is immersive, collaborative and future-focused — with small class sizes, expert faculty and extensive project-based learning. Our strong ties to industry also give students a competitive edge for internships, research and job placement.

Are you ready to shape the future of technology? Learn more about our Computer, Electrical and Software Engineering programs at Prescott and discover which degree best aligns with your passion and goals.