State approves new computer engineering degree at Henderson

Henderson State University has received state approval to offer a bachelor of science degree in computer engineering.

The new degree is a collaborative effort between the Department of Engineering and Physics, and the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics. Students who graduate with this degree will also earn a minor in mathematics.

“Our Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering degree is well-aligned with the labor market needs of this state, as well as nationally,” said Dr. Kenneth Taylor, vice provost and dean of Graduate School at Henderson. “This will be the only undergraduate computer engineering degree to be offered south of Little Rock.”

Following approval by Henderson’s Board of Trustees, the degree was approved by the Arkansas Department of Higher Education, the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and the Higher Learning Commission.

During the four-year curriculum, students will learn modern engineering design methods, project management, team dynamic, communication skills, and the engineering code of ethics, said Dr. Rick McDaniel, chair of Henderson’s Department of Engineering and Physics.

“The need for technological advancement never slows, and demand for computer engineering majors is strong,” McDaniel said. “Before proposing the new degree, we did a survey of numerous industries in the region to determine the demand for this degree.

“We received incredibly positive feedback about the need for the degree, and many welcomed the opportunity to interview and hire local talent with this technical expertise.”

McDaniel said computer engineering graduates typically have some of the highest starting salaries in engineering.

“Graduates will apply their knowledge to the design of computing systems and software in various areas, including robotics, embedded systems, mobile devices, computer networks, automation, computer vision, pattern recognition, and cybersecurity,” he said.

The degree will become available beginning fall 2021.

For more information about Henderson’s engineering and physics program, go to hsu.edu/engineering. Additional information about the computer science program can be found at hsu.edu/computerscience.