Computer engineers design and build computer systems and software. They work in laboratories, manufacturing firms, and system design firms, including doing research for the federal government. Computer engineers need at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering but many get a master's degree as well. The University of Iowa and Iowa State University are two top schools for computer engineering in Iowa, with tuition around $8,000-7,000 respectively. Computer engineers earn salaries between $59,000 to $117,500 annually or $28-56 per hour. The job offers challenges, creativity, good pay, and growth, but requires keeping up with fast-changing technology through work outside normal hours.

1. Computer Engineer
Luke Mennen

2. Work Task
• Design computer
software
• Build and test product
prototypes
• Use skills to keep up
with rapid computer
advancements

3. Work Environment
• Laboratories
• Manufacturing firms
• System design firms
• Research for federal
government

4. Education
• 4 year Bachelor of
Science Degree
• Recommended Masters
Degree

5. University of Iowa
• About 30,000 students
• In state Tuition $8,057
• top 20 percent of
engineering programs
nationwide.

6. Iowa State
• About 27,000
• In State Tuition $7,000
• Top 20 in computer
Engineering

7. Salary
• Salary Range: $ 59,000
to $ 117,500 per year
• $ 28.25 to $ 56.50 per
hour

8. Positives about the job
• the challenge
• creative
• good salaries
• pleasant surroundings
• employment
opportunities

9. Negatives about the job
• to keep up with
advances in technology
• working evenings and
weekends
• the frustration of
program problems

10. Growth
• 9 percent growth from
2010 to 2020
• Technology is advancing
rapidly

11. Sources
• Discover ACT
• Occupational Outlook
• I Have a Plan
• University of Iowa
• Iowa State University