The Certificate in Computer Engineering at Tufts University is a 15-credit graduate certificate focused on the analysis, design, and operation of computing devices and systems. Students build knowledge across computer networking, computer architecture, and computer software and systems, developing an understanding of how hardware and software work together in connected computing environments.

The program is jointly administered by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Computer Science. It is offered on campus in Medford/Somerville through full-time or part-time study and may be completed in 12 to 24 months.

Who is this Program For?

The Certificate in Computer Engineering is designed for motivated students and professionals with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline and appropriate mathematics and science preparation who want focused graduate study in computing systems.

This program may be a strong fit for applicants who want to:

Build foundational knowledge in computer architecture, networking, and systems software
Strengthen preparation in hardware and software integration
Explore embedded systems, connected devices, cloud computing, security, or parallel computing
Expand technical knowledge for work involving computer systems or digital technologies
Prepare for further graduate study in computer engineering or a related field

Students whose undergraduate preparation did not cover core computer engineering topics may be advised to complete bridge coursework.

Application Requirements

Application Fee
Resume/CV
Personal Statement
Transcripts
One letter of recommendation
Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores (if applicable)

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What Will You Study?

Students complete graduate-level coursework in three core areas of computer engineering:

Computer Networking: Study how computers and connected devices communicate through networked systems and applications.
Computer Architecture: Examine digital systems, processor and memory architecture, embedded systems, parallel computing, digital design, and related hardware concepts.

Computer Software and Systems: Explore programming, operating systems, databases, security, cloud computing, and software engineering for computing systems.

Bridge courses may be recommended for students who need additional preparation in machine-centric programming, data structures and algorithms, digital systems, or computer architecture. Depending on their preparation and academic plan, students may also study topics such as:

Networked embedded systems
Real-time embedded systems
Digital integrated circuit and FPGA design
Very-large-scale integration design
Information theory

Machine learning
Algorithms
Cloud computing
Computer security

About the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

The Certificate in Computer Engineering is jointly administered by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Computer Science at Tufts University School of Engineering.

Electrical and computer engineering connects hardware, software, communications, sensing, and intelligent systems. Through the joint program structure, certificate students study computing systems from perspectives that include architecture, networking, software, embedded technologies, and digital design.

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Why Study Computer Engineering at Tufts?

Joint Study in Engineering and Computer Science

The certificate brings together coursework in electrical and computer engineering and computer science. Students can build an integrated understanding of computing devices, system architecture, networks, and software rather than studying these areas in isolation.

Coverage of Core Computing Systems Areas

Students complete coursework across computer networking, computer architecture, and computer software and systems. This structure helps students develop a foundation in the major technical areas that shape modern computing platforms and connected devices.

Preparation for Advanced Technical Study

Students whose prior academic preparation does not include key computer engineering topics may take bridge coursework in programming, data structures, algorithms, digital systems, and computer architecture. This provides a pathway for students entering the field from different academic backgrounds.

Graduate Engineering Study Near Boston and Cambridge

Tufts’ Medford/Somerville campus places students near the technology, engineering, research, and innovation communities of Greater Boston. Students pursue graduate engineering study within a research university environment while building focused technical expertise.

What Can You Do With a Certificate in Computer Engineering?

The Certificate in Computer Engineering can support students and professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge of computing systems, hardware and software integration, and connected technologies.

Students may use this credential to build preparation relevant to areas such as:

Computer systems engineering
Embedded systems
Computer architecture
Systems software
Computer networking
Connected devices and networked applications

Cloud computing
Digital hardware design
Hardware/software integration
Further graduate study in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or computer science

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Bridge Courses Available for Students Without a Computer Engineering Background?

Students whose undergraduate preparation did not include core computer engineering topics may be advised to complete bridge coursework in programming, data structures and algorithms, digital systems, or computer architecture.

What Topics Does the Certificate Cover?

Students study computer networking, computer architecture, and computer software and systems. Coursework may also address embedded systems, cloud computing, security, parallel computing, digital design, machine learning, or algorithms.

Are Scholarships Available?

The School of Engineering offers partial tuition scholarships for a select group of Engineering master’s and certificate programs. When you apply for admission, you’ll automatically be considered, there’s no separate scholarship application or additional information required. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for priority scholarship consideration.

How Do I Apply?

Applicants can apply online through Tufts Graduate Admissions Portal. Required materials typically include transcripts, a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. International applicants may also need to submit English proficiency documentation. Visit the admissions page for current deadlines and application requirements.