Computer Engineering


ShapIng the future from code to creation

Preparing students to design, build, and program cutting-edge computer-based systems. By focusing on digital hardware design and software integration, graduates are equipped to drive innovation in rapidly evolving fields like robotics, AI, and IoT.

Monitoring The ice

Teams collect real-time data about ice conditions at the UMaine hockey rink.

addressing threat of security breaches in semiconductor design

Prabuddha Chakraborty, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering

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Program Offerings 

Computer Engineering Overview

UMaine’s Computer Engineering program is dedicated to empowering students with the skills to design, construct, and program computers and computer-based systems that power modern technology. Combining expertise in digital hardware systems and software development, the program offers a robust education at the intersection of hardware and software integration. Graduates are prepared to tackle challenges in rapidly growing fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and medical devices.

Computer engineering plays a crucial role in improving lives—from enabling more accurate climate modeling and cancer diagnostics to developing systems for autonomous vehicles and smart buildings. Students gain hands-on experience with innovative technologies such as lightweight computerized payloads, contributing to advances in environmental research and space exploration.

With one of the highest starting salaries among four-year degree programs and a broad spectrum of career opportunities, UMaine’s Computer Engineering program equips students to make a meaningful impact in a world increasingly driven by intelligent systems. Whether designing microprocessors, programming autonomous robots, or creating life-changing applications, computer engineers are the innovators of tomorrow.

Program Objectives

The University of Maine’s Biomedical Engineering Program prepares students to thrive in the dynamic and impactful field of biomedical engineering. This discipline focuses on the intersection of biology, medicine, and engineering, equipping students with the skills to create innovative solutions that benefit society. Biomedical engineers are at the forefront of designing artificial organs, developing advanced cancer detection methods, creating sensors for biological agents, and engineering materials for drug delivery.

UMaine’s program emphasizes rigorous undergraduate engineering instruction in areas like biological systems analysis, instrumentation, and the manipulation of biological processes. The curriculum combines core training in engineering, mathematics, and science with elective courses in humanities, social sciences, and specialized biomedical topics. Students gain hands-on experience through opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research, addressing challenges like cancer detection, tissue-implant compatibility, bio-inspired materials, and computational diagnostics.

Graduates of UMaine’s Biomedical Engineering Program are equipped for employment in clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic industries or for pursuing advanced degrees. Additional pathways, including minors in Pre-Medical Studies or Engineering Leadership and Management, and a five-year BS-MBA option, provide flexible opportunities tailored to student interests. With biomedical engineering’s rapid growth, UMaine graduates are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to healthcare innovation and society.

Student Outcomes

  • An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
  • An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
  • An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
  • An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts.
  • An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
  • An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
  • An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Department Information

Department Chair: Yifeng Zhu
Department Administrator: Heather Pierce

Electrical & Computer Engineering
5708 Barrows Hall, Room 101
Orono, Maine 04469
Tel: 207.581.2224
Fax: 207.581.4531

Leading the way


The ECE Department provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students for research in a wide variety of areas. Explore eaCH AREA and associated faculty members.

Our Faculty and Staff

At MCEC, our faculty is the heartbeat of our academic community. Dedicated, inspiring, and deeply knowledgeable, our professors go beyond the traditional classroom experience to foster real-world skills and a passion for learning. Whether mentoring, leading innovative research, or providing personalized support, our faculty members are committed to empowering students to achieve their highest potential

Ali Abedi

Associate Vice President for Research; Director, Center for Undergraduate Research

Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the Commission’s General Criteria and the Computer Engineering Program Criteria.

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