Embedded Systems : It's What's Inside That Counts!
Did you know that the computers and software that control nearly every aerospace system (e.g. the NASA Space Shuttle, International Space Station, and Mars Rover) are indispensable?  In fact, software is the critical element that must be developed with great precision for these systems to function with a high degree of reliability. 

 Shuttle launch as seen from Daytona Beach campus.

Moreover, these vitally important components known as embedded systems, are hidden inside of larger system components.  This is especially true in aviation and aerospace applications where, not only are the computers hidden, but they are critical to the safe and successful operation of the craft. Without well-engineered software packaging, transportation systems would come to a halt. For example, the Boeing 777 has 1280 computers and over 4 million lines of software; an average automobile has 15 computers (60 in luxury models!) controlling a myriad of critical - and comfort - functions.

At ERAU's Department of Computer & Software Engineering, we specialize in educating our students about the latest practices in creating these "hidden" computer systems. Building these systems requires special skills and the focus of the degree programs in the CSE is helping students acquire those in-demand skills.

Excitement and challenge are everywhere within the CSE department at ERAU!  If you can meet the challenges here, where you learn how to engineer hardware and software for jetliners and space vehicles, you can develop computer systems and software for earthbound systems like tomorrow's automobiles and rapid transit systems, telecommunication networks or multi-dimensional web applications. 

Top twelve reasons why a degree in Software Engineering or Computer Engineering from ERAU is the right choice:
1. World leader in aviation education
2. Small classes
3. Dedicated faculty with research and industry experience
4. Undergraduate and graduate research opportunities
5. State of the art laboratories and classrooms
6. Specialization in safety critical, real-time, embedded systems
7.Classroom projects using real world tools, solving real world problems 
8. Internships with world renowned companies
9. Accredited programs
10. Stellar job opportunties with higher than average pay
11. Beautiful campus located in sunny Daytona Beach, Florida, just minutes from the World's Most Famous Beach 
12. Diverse student body and over 100 clubs and organizations

Opportunities in High Tech:  The Industry

Careers in computing tend to be some of the highest paying in the industry. Add a specialization in aviation or aerospace and you can boost your income potential and work in the field you love! Like this Embry-Riddle alumnus:

"I chose the Computer Engineering program at Embry-Riddle because of its comprehensive combination of software and hardware courses. The degree has really helped me hit the ground running at Boeing where I work on upgrading the F/A-18 Super Hornet's advanced mission computers and displays."
       - - Scott Flood, ERAU Computer Engineering Grad


Average Starting Salaries:
Software Engineers (Computer Science with SE background) - Design, test, implement and maintain software systems to meet client or employer needs.  Fastest growing field in the US! 
Average starting salary: $62,750

Computer Engineers - Research, design, develop and test computer hardware and supervise its manufacture and installation.  Above average job growth. 
Average starting salary: $53,924

And you don't have to wait until graduation to get some hands-on experience. Students often participate in the cooperative education program at ERAU. Kim M., a Software Engineering major in the five-year masters program landed a co-op position with VERITAS Software Corporation during the summer of her junior year and had this to say: "I continued to work on more and more challenging defects throughout the duration of my internship. As my knowledge base grew, so did my confidence...I worked independently, helped meet the Beta deadline as part of a team and felt as though I succeeded! What a learning experience!". Since graduation she has been employed as a manager at Veritas.