Computer hardware engineer: engineering degree, internships, optional PE
Entry-level computer hardware engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or a related field, such as electrical engineering; some employers require or prefer a master's. A PE license is rarely required for hardware roles.
For: Students with a solid math and science background who want to design circuits and computer systems.
Route 1: Bachelor's in computer engineering Typical
Prepare in high school with a solid background in math and science.
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Start here
High school: math and science
BLS
Computer Hardware Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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About 4 years
Bachelor's in computer or electrical engineering
Coursework and labs in subjects such as circuit design and computer and operating systems organization; programming helps.
BLS
Computer Hardware Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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During college
Internship
BLS
Computer Hardware Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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Goal
Computer hardware engineer
Some can advance to engineering managers.
BLS
Computer Hardware Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
Route 2: Master's degree Some employers
Some employers require or prefer job candidates who have a master's in computer engineering.
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Start here
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Computer Hardware Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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Graduate
Master's in computer engineering
BLS
Computer Hardware Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
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Goal
Computer hardware engineer
BLS
Computer Hardware Engineers — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 20 Oct 2026
Route 3: Optional: Professional Engineer (PE) license Rarely required
A PE is needed to offer engineering services directly to the public; computer hardware roles rarely require one.
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Start here
ABET-accredited engineering degree
ABET
What Programs Does ABET Accredit?ABET- Checked
- 7 Oct 2026
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Exam gate
FE exam
Passing usually leads to Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI) status.
FE and PE examsNCEES
FE examNCEES- Checked
- 7 Oct 2026
Where to go next
Every career page in this cluster: entry, license, BLS pay and outlook.
What the job is, BLS pay and job outlook, and how to become one.