Second Bachelor’s Program in Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering Students

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers two pathways for individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree:

  1. Master of Science in Computer Engineering (M.S.)
  2. Second Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (B.S.)

Students interested in the M.S. in Computer Engineering should consult the university catalog and contact the department’s Graduate Coordinator for detailed information about admission requirements and program structure. Students enrolled in the M.S. program must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

This page provides detailed information about the Second Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program. Students pursuing the Second Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Program Overview

Computer Engineering sits at the intersection of electrical engineering and computer science. The program prepares students to design, develop, and integrate the hardware and software systems that power modern technology.

CSUN’s Computer Engineering program emphasizes:

  • Hardware system design
  • Signals and Systems
  • FPGA, ASIC, SOC Design
  • Embedded systems and Robotics

Students in the Second Bachelor’s program complete the Computer Engineering major requirements, including foundational engineering and computing courses, upper-division computer engineering courses, laboratory and design experiences, and any additional requirements determined after review of prior coursework.

Prospective Students 

Thinking about moving into computer engineering or expanding your technical skills beyond your first degree? The Second Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering at CSUN is designed for motivated students who want a structured path into hardware-centered computing, embedded intelligence, and system-level design.

This program is a strong fit if you are interested in how computers are built, how devices communicate with sensors and the physical world, how robots are controlled, or how digital systems are designed from circuits to processors.

  • Hardware-Focused Computing: Build expertise in digital systems, computer architecture, embedded platforms, and VLSI
  • Hands-On Engineering: Gain practical experience through labs, design projects, and system implementation
  • Embedded and Robotic Systems: Learn to design computing systems that interact with the real world
  • Signal and Image Processing: Explore techniques used in sensing, automation, imaging, and intelligent systems
  • Career Transition: Prepare for technical roles in computer hardware, embedded systems, robotics, semiconductor design, automation, and related industries
  • Graduate School Preparation: Build the foundation needed for M.S. or advanced study in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields

As a second bachelor’s student, you’ll follow the Computer Engineering curriculum with an individualized plan. After admission, your academic advisor and the department chair will evaluate your previous coursework and identify exactly what you need to complete.

Your journey typically includes:

  • Foundational math, physics, and programming preparation
  • Required engineering topics like digital logic, computer architecture, and microprocessors
  • Upper-division elective courses in hardware design or algorithm development
  • A group senior design project (see current Senior Design Projects)

Application procedures depend on the semester in which the candidate plans to begin the program.

Fall 2026 or Spring 2027 Start

Candidates who are interested in starting the Second Bachelor’s program in Computer Engineering in Fall 2026 or Spring 2027 should contact the ECE Department Office for application procedures.

Contact: ece@csun.edu

When contacting the department, prospective students are encouraged to include:

  • Full name
  • Intended start term: Fall 2026 or Spring 2027
  • Previous bachelor’s degree institution and major
  • Unofficial transcripts, if available

Fall 2027 or Later Start

Candidates who are interested in starting in Fall 2027 or later should apply through CSU Apply when the application becomes available for the intended admission cycle.

Prospective students should also review CSUN admissions information, application deadlines, transcript requirements, and any additional university-level requirements for second bachelor’s applicants.

Enrolled Students

This section is for students who have already been admitted to and are enrolled in the Second Bachelor’s program in Computer Engineering.

Second bachelor’s students should work closely with an ECE academic advisor in the College Student Services center to develop an individualized academic plan.

Contact College Student Services:

  • Phone: (818) 677-2191
  • Location: Jacaranda Hall (JD) 1501

Advising is especially important because students enter the program with different prior degrees, prerequisite preparation, and transferable coursework.

Advising helps you:

  • Understand remaining degree requirements
  • Identify prerequisites and course sequencing
  • Plan for upper-division Electrical Engineering courses
  • Review transfer or previously completed coursework
  • Prepare for registration each semester
  • Stay on track for graduation

If you feel stuck or overwhelmed, you can always reach out to the ECE Department Office:

When emailing, please include your CSUN ID number, current academic standing, and the specific advising question so we can assist you efficiently.

Students in the Second Bachelor’s program must complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering, subject to university policy and evaluation of previously completed coursework. Course requirements include the following areas:

General Education (27 units)

This requirement should have been completed from your first Bachelor’s degree.

Mathematics and Science Foundation (30 units)

Lower-Division Engineering Preparation (22 Units)

Upper-Division Computer Engineering Required Courses (36 Units)

Upper Division Electives (11 units)

Students will be required to take the corresponding labs for every elective chosen that offers a lab. For each lab taken, the corresponding lecture course is a corequisite.

Select a minimum of 11 units from the following: