Rather than just using a computers, computer engineers apply scientific theory and engineering design to use and develop new computer hardware or software. They write programs to solve problems and create more efficient ways of doing things. They also design new systems and machines, like robots, that rely on computers to operate.

• Create software that detects brain tumors earlier
   
• Design a feather-light laptop
   
• Develop user-friendly blogging software
   
• Oversee the computer network for a telecommunications company
   
• Predict the strength of earthquakes through computer simulation

Most computer engineers have bachelor's degrees. Those working with hardware or machines typically have degrees in computer or electrical engineering, whereas those dealing with software have degrees in computer science or software engineering.

Computer engineers can work anywhere there are computers, and telecommuting is becoming quite common for many computer professionals. They usually work 40-hour weeks, but can work longer hours on special jobs or projects with pressing deadlines. Computer engineers often work with teams of other engineers or scientists.

The starting salary for a computer engineer (2007):

B.S. degree
$56,201

M.S. degree
$60,000

Ph.D.
$92,500