Program Overview

Computer Engineering Technology Program

Overview

The Computer Engineering Technology (CET) program at City Tech provides students with a solid foundation in electronics, computing, and embedded systems. This two-year multidisciplinary program prepares students for entry-level careers in computing, electronic systems, and Information Technology (IT) while serving as the first step toward the Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Computer Engineering Technology.

Key Features

• Covers digital and analog electronics, microcontrollers, computer programming for embedded systems and IoT devices, computer hardware, and networking fundamentals.
• Emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory experiences in circuit design, hardware troubleshooting, computer-controlled systems, and embedded systems.
• Prepares students for entry-level technical roles in electronics, IT support, telecommunications, and embedded computing.
• Provides a structured pathway to the BTech program, allowing students to continue their education seamlessly.

Career Pathways

Graduates of the AAS program can either enter the workforce immediately in entry-level positions or transition into the BTech in Computer Engineering Technology to gain expertise in advanced topics and qualify for higher-level engineering positions.

Career Opportunities & Industry Demand

The AAS in Computer Engineering Technology provides a strong technical foundation for careers in various technology-driven industries, including:

• Computer System Maintenance & IT Support
• Business Machines & Data Processing Equipment
• Electromechanical & Industrial Automation Systems
• Production Assembly & Manufacturing Technology
• Biomedical Instrumentation & Smart Healthcare Devices
• Robotics Technology & Intelligent Systems Common job titles include:
• Computer Engineering Technician
• Embedded Systems Technician
• Electronics Technician
• IT Support Specialist
• Network Technician
• Field Service Engineer
• Biomedical Equipment Technician
• Robotics & Automation Technician Employers hiring AAS graduates include:
• Technology firms and IT service providers
• Telecommunications companies
• Manufacturing and automation industries
• Biomedical technology and healthcare equipment companies
• Defense and aerospace contractors
• Government agencies and research institutions

Skills and Knowledge

Students completing the AAS in Computer Engineering Technology will develop expertise in:

• Electronics and Circuit Design – Understanding and working with analog and digital electronic systems.
• Programming and Software Development – Writing and debugging code in Python, C, C++, and Java.
• Microcontrollers and Embedded Systems – Designing and implementing embedded computing solutions, including IoT devices.
• Computer Hardware and Troubleshooting – Installing, maintaining, and repairing computing systems.
• Networking and Data Communication – Configuring and managing network infrastructure.
• Technical Problem-Solving – Applying logical reasoning and troubleshooting techniques in engineering contexts.

Industry Certification Readiness

While certification is not required for graduation, students are encouraged to pursue industry-recognized credentials to enhance their job prospects. The program prepares students for:

• CompTIA A+ – IT support & computer hardware troubleshooting
• CompTIA Network+ – Networking fundamentals, security & troubleshooting

Unique Program Features

• Multidisciplinary Approach: The CET program integrates hardware, software, electronics, networking, and embedded systems, preparing students for diverse roles in modern computing and engineering.
• One of Only Two AAS Programs in Computer Engineering Technology within CUNY: A unique offering within New York City's public university system.
• Seamless Pathway to the BTech Degree: Students can transition directly into the BTech in Computer Engineering Technology, continuing their education without losing credits.
• Strong Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with leading technology firms creates internship and job opportunities.
• Flexible Evening & Weekend Courses: Designed for working students and those needing a flexible schedule.
• Expert Faculty: Instructors specialize in AI, electronics, cybersecurity, software engineering, and embedded systems, ensuring students learn from experienced professionals.

Program Educational Objectives

1. Graduates of the program are expected to be employed as engineering technicians or the equivalent in positions beyond the entry-level for which this program has prepared them. They will be expected to practice their profession either as individual contributors or as members of a team in a competent and efficient manner.
2. Graduates of the program who desire to continue their education will pursue the path towards a bachelor's degree in a related undergraduate program. This may be on a part-time basis, while employed, or it may be on a full-time basis.
3. Graduates of the program might become members of a professional society related to their employment or field of study. They will be committed to continue as lifelong learners and contributors to their discipline, and remain ready to act as the society needs them.

General Student Outcomes

Students demonstrate:

1. an ability to apply knowledge, techniques, skills and modern tools of mathematics, science, engineering, and technology to solve well-defined engineering problems appropriate to the discipline;
2. an ability to design solutions for well-defined technical problems and assist with the engineering design of systems, components, or processes appropriate to the discipline;
3. an ability to apply written, oral, and graphical communication in well-defined technical and non-technical environments; and an ability to identify and use appropriate technical literature;
4. an ability to conduct standard tests, measurements, and experiments and to analyze and interpret the results; and
5. an ability to function effectively as a member of a technical team.

Program Criteria Student Outcomes

Students demonstrate knowledge and hands-on competence in:

1. application of electric circuits, computer programming, associated software applications, analog and digital electronics, microcontrollers, operating systems, local area networks, and engineering standards to the building, testing, operation, and maintenance of computer systems and associated software systems; and
2. application of natural sciences and mathematics at or above the level of algebra and trigonometry to the building, testing, operation, and maintenance of computer systems and associated software systems.

Requirements

General Education

• Type: Completion requirement
• Required Common Core
• Some courses that are required for the major also meet general education requirements. Choosing to take advantage of double duty can speed up progress toward graduation and increase elective credits.
• Fulfill ALL of the following requirements:
  • English Composition
  • Mathematical and Quantitative Reasoning
  • Life and Physical Sciences
• Flexible Common Core
  • Bachelor's degrees and AA and AS degrees require six flexible common core courses: at least one course in each of the five flexible core areas and an additional sixth course in one of them. Students can complete no more than two courses from any one area. AAS degrees may require fewer overall flexible core credits.
• Writing Intensive
  • Students at New York City College of Technology must complete two courses designated writing intensive (WI) for the associate level, one from general education requirements and one from the major.

Required Courses in the Major

• Type: Completion requirement
• Complete ALL of the following Courses:
  • CET 1100 - Introduction to Computer and Software Engineering
  • CET 1111 - Logic and Problem Solving
  • CET 1120 - Technical Graphics
  • CET 1150 - Fundamentals of Electrical Circuits
  • CET 1211 - Introduction to Objected-Oriented Programming in Software Design
  • CET 1250 - Fundamentals of Digital Systems
  • CET 2312 - Reverse Engineering/Product Design
  • CET 2350 - Electronics
  • CET 2370 - Computer Hardware Systems
  • CET 2390 - Operating Systems Laboratory
  • CET 2450 - Introduction to Microcontrollers
  • CET 2455 - Data Communications
  • CET 2461 - Computer Systems: Software Interface
  • CET 2411 - C/C++ Programming for Embedded Systems
  • OR CST 2403 - Introductory C++ Programming Language Part I
  • OR CET 2901 - Internship in CET AAS Program

Overall Requirements

• Type: Completion requirement
• Complete at least 20 credits of liberal arts and sciences
• Complete a minimum of 30 credits in residence at New York City College of Technology, at least 15 of which must be from among those listed as required courses in the major
• Earn at least 64-65 credits

Degree Map Narrative

A recommended semester-by-semester plan for full-time students.

Year 1

Fall

• Actual Credits: 16
• Requirements
  • ENG 1101 - English Composition I
  • MAT 1275 - College Algebra and Trigonometry
  • CET 1100 - Introduction to Computer and Software Engineering
  • CET 1111 - Logic and Problem Solving
  • CET 1120 - Technical Graphics
  • CET 1150 - Fundamentals of Electrical Circuits

Spring

• Actual Credits: 16
• Requirements
  • ENG 1121 - English Composition II
  • CET 1211 - Introduction to Objected-Oriented Programming in Software Design
  • CET 1250 - Fundamentals of Digital Systems
  • MAT 1375 - Precalculus
  • Flexible Core - Any Area

Year 2

Fall

• Actual Credits: 15 - 16
• Requirements
  • CET 2312 - Reverse Engineering/Product Design
  • CET 2350 - Electronics
  • CET 2370 - Computer Hardware Systems
  • CET 2390 - Operating Systems Laboratory
  • PHYS 1433 - General Physics I: Algebra Based
  • OR PHYS 1441 - General Physics I: Calculus Based

Spring

• Actual Credits: 17
• Requirements
  • CET 2411 - C/C++ Programming for Embedded Systems
  • CET 2450 - Introduction to Microcontrollers
  • CET 2455 - Data Communications
  • CET 2461 - Computer Systems: Software Interface
  • MAT 1475 - Calculus I
  • Flexible Core - Any Area