COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Computer Engineering at Wright State University is a flexible graduate program that integrates hardware and software systems, allowing students to choose either thesis or non-thesis options depending on their career goals, with a minimum of 30 credit hours to complete. The program builds strong foundations in core areas such as embedded systems, distributed computing, advanced programming, operating systems, data structures, and digital system design, while also offering advanced 7000/8000-level electives in specialized fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, computer vision, networking, data mining, and parallel computing. Students are expected to meet prerequisite knowledge in programming, computer organization, mathematics, and related computing fundamentals before admission. The curriculum emphasizes both theory and practical application, preparing graduates to solve complex engineering problems using modern computing techniques. Facilities supporting the program include advanced computer labs with Linux, Windows, and Mac systems, specialized research environments such as cybersecurity labs, visualization and animation theaters, and high-performance computing and research centers like the Appenzeller Visualization Laboratory. Students also gain exposure to cutting-edge research areas including AI, bioinformatics, mobile computing, and distributed systems through faculty-led projects and interdisciplinary collaboration. The non-thesis pathway focuses more heavily on coursework and advanced technical training, while the thesis pathway includes up to 9 credit hours of research culminating in an approved master’s thesis. Both options ensure depth in computer engineering principles and require a mix of graduate-level coursework, with restrictions on lower-level credits and independent study. Admission typically requires a relevant bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA around 3.0, and foundational coursework in programming, algorithms, operating systems, and math such as calculus and discrete mathematics. Overall, the program is designed to prepare students either for advanced industry roles in software and hardware engineering or for further doctoral study by developing strong analytical, design, and problem-solving skills in modern computing systems.