Dalhousie Engineering has officially launched a new degree option, the Bachelor of Computer Engineering. Beginning in 2025, students entering their third year of engineering can now choose to specialize and graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering. In previous years, Dalhousie offered a Computer Engineering option within the Electrical Engineering program, allowing students to take a few computer-focused courses alongside the traditional electrical curriculum. The establishment of a dedicated degree represents a major step forward in recognizing the growing im-portance of computer systems and digital technologies in modern engineering.
The first cohort of Computer Engineering students is currently wrapping up the midterm season and preparing for their final exams. This pioneering class brings together students from across Nova Scotia, including those who transferred from Acadia University, Dalhousie’s Agricultural Campus, Cape Breton University, and other institutions eager to be part of Dalhousie’s newest engineering discipline. Although it is currently the smallest program within the Faculty of Engineering, with approximately 20 students, there is strong optimism that the program will grow rapidly as awareness spreads and as more students recognize the opportunities that come with this specialization.
“It’s an exciting time to be at Dalhousie!”, said one third year computer engineering student, “I am excited to see where we go from here, especially since we are getting to be the first students to take some of these courses, like ‘Computer Engineering Fundamentals’ and ‘Algorithms for Computer Engineers’, it will be cool to see what the professors do with the new courses”
With the first semester almost coming to an end, the brand-new course, Computer Engineering Fundamentals, has had a great semester. The course is being taught by Dr. Muhammad Hassan Raza, a professor in Dalhousie’s Internetworking department. The course is being run similarly to a design course, while simultaneously introducing key computer engineering concepts such as software development methods and version control management.
Dr. Raza is working with students to develop the course and make it as useful as possible for all those taking it.
Now more than ever, it is crucial that Dalhousie continues to adapt its programs to meet the evolving demands of the engineering industry.
Technology is advancing faster than ever, and employers are increasingly seeking engineers who can bridge the gap between hardware and software. This new degree option ensures that Dalhousie graduates are well-equipped with both the theoretical foundations and the practical, hands-on experience needed to succeed in areas such as artificial intelligence, embedded systems, cybersecurity, robotics, and digital systems design.
By offering a full Computer Engineering degree, Dalhousie positions itself at the forefront of technological education and innovation in Atlantic Canada. Students will have the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty and industry professionals, work on cutting-edge projects, and gain skills that are in high demand across multiple industries. This new program not only benefits students but also strengthens Dalhousie’s reputation as a leader in engineering education, one that is responsive to global trends, committed to innovation, and dedicated to preparing the next generation of engineers for the challenges of the digital age.