Department-based Major Allocation

Starting from 2022-23, the CENG programme will be under the department-based admission scheme. By the end of the first year of study, students who are admitted to the Computer Science and Engineering programme will be invited to declare their programme choices, either Computer Science (CSCI) or CENG. The Department shall give due consideration to students’ preferences and try to accommodate students with their most preferred programme.

The Comeback of Computers

As Prof. Irwin Kuo Chin King, Chairman of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, explained, ‘From the traditional mainframe computers to the smart gadgets in our hands, the computer has involved in many parts of our lives. Further advancements will require computer engineers to integrate both software and hardware to innovate creative and personalized devices. To meet this challenge, our programme has been designed to offer comprehensive training for students to ensure they gain computer knowledge in circuit, device and system levels, as well as solve real world engineering problems with the application of computers.’ Prof. King added that equal emphasis is placed on providing practical experience to students, such that they can implement the knowledge into reality. Hence, they will start with hands-on projects at the beginning of their studies and throughout their curricula. Two optional streams are available for students to choose according to their own interests,

• Embedded Systems
• VLSI Design & EDA

Students who would like to broaden their learning can take any minor programme at CUHK, or continue their studies for an additional year to gain an Integrated Business Administration Bachelor Degree upon completion of the BEng degree in Computer Engineering.

The Programme also encourages students to participate in placement and internship programme. Students may spend up to a year to work in a real industrial setting. Under the supervision of advisers and companies, they apply in life what they have learnt. Overseas exchange opportunities are also available for students seeking to learn with peers from diverse backgrounds and spark up with new ideas.

On the other hand, for those students who look for competitive exposure, the Programme always supports them to join various local and overseas competitions, where they overcome the challenges with their sound computer knowledge in a creative yet practical way. Some of them had obtained excellent achievements in renowned competitions such as Robocon Hong Kong Contest and the ICPC World Finals.

Our Computer Engineering Graduate

Alvin Luk chose Computer Engineering at CUHK without any hesitation when applying to universities. ‘I love hardware design and robots and model building. A tiny change in the system can introduce a very different outcome. I am hooked on exploring the interrelationship between them.’

Alvin pointed out that the Programme helped him to build up a solid foundation in logic, systems and theories. ‘The Department also provides adequate hardware support for us to apply the knowledge and launch our projects. Teachers are always enthusiastic about discussing complex topics with us, inspiring us to search for breakthroughs.’

In the final year of study, all graduating students are required to discuss with their supervisors on applying their computer engineering knowledge for their final year project. Alvin implemented the latest knowledge to build an obstacle avoidance motor car. After repeated trials and adjustments in both the algorithm and hardware design, he managed to find the optimized way to improve the precision and efficiency of the car. ‘You can’t imagine the exhilaration and accomplishment when you finally make the fancy idea come into reality!’

He added, ‘Studying is no easy task, particularly when you need to handle tons of assignments and laboratory exercises at the same time. It sounds crazy that I stayed in the laboratories for numerous overnights to complete the project, however, it was a good training for time management.’

Unlike other students, Alvin joined the drama club in his College when he found his genuine interest in Year 2. ‘I believe that apart from acquiring knowledge, the University is also a place for you to challenge yourself, grow up and explore new possibilities.’

Today, the advances in VLSI and microprocessors have enabled innovative products such as smartphones, smart devices, digital cameras and supercomputers to keep appearing in the market. The demand for computer engineers grows significantly. ‘The Programme had progressively led me to master the latest computer engineering developments, and I am confident to apply what I have learnt in my future career.’ Alvin concluded his fruitful journey in the Programme, ‘Step out of your comfort zone, and you will find a wonderful university life which is full of uncertainties yet possibilities, in both academic and non-academic aspects.’

Published: Summer 2020
Last Updated: Summer 2022