MSc Computer Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Sharjah

Program Overview

This Master of Science in Computer Engineering is a two-year, research-oriented postgraduate programme that builds your expertise in advanced computing, hardware-software integration, systems design and intelligent computing — preparing you to engineer solutions for complex digital infrastructures and emerging technologies. You’ll blend core technical knowledge with practical project work and a thesis, making it ideal for careers in engineering design, embedded systems, communications, robotics, intelligent systems or further academic research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 — Core Technical Foundations & Analytical Skills:
In your first year, you establish a strong foundation in engineering concepts and analytical methods with compulsory modules such as Engineering Research Methodologies, Optimization Methods in Engineering and Applied Mathematics for Engineering — all designed to deepen your understanding of mathematical modelling, engineering analysis and research fundamentals. You also begin elective study with subjects like Computer Architecture, Distributed Systems & Cloud Computing, Real-Time Embedded Systems and Neural Networks & Applications, which help you connect theory with real-world systems design.

Year 2 — Advanced Electives & Thesis Research:
In the second year, you continue electives tailored to your interests (e.g., Computer Networks, Network Security & Cryptography, Mobile Computing, Computational Intelligence & Knowledge Engineering) while you begin work on your Master’s Thesis — a substantial research project that lets you investigate a specific computer engineering problem under faculty supervision and demonstrate independent research and technical competence.

Focus areas:
Computer systems and architecture; optimization and applied mathematics; embedded and distributed systems; networks and security; computational intelligence.

Learning outcomes:
You’ll graduate able to analyse complex engineering problems, design and optimise hardware-software systems, conduct independent research, and communicate advanced technical solutions clearly to professional and academic audiences.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
This MSc is a Level-9 postgraduate qualification recognised by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research and aligns with international standards for advanced engineering education.

Reputation (employability):
The University of Sharjah is a well-established, research-focused institution in the UAE, and its engineering programmes are respected for academic depth, practical rigor and strong links to industry and research sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students develop applied expertise by conducting original research in a chosen specialization, utilizing advanced laboratory facilities, and engaging with industry and community-focused projects. This hands-on learning is facilitated by the university's research-oriented environment and partnerships. The experiential learning approach is implemented through several key components:

Primary Research Focus: The core practical component is a substantial Master's Thesis. Students must complete an independent research project (12 credit hours) that involves designing, implementing, and evaluating a novel solution to a computing problem under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
Specialized Research Facilities: Students have access to KU's specialized research laboratories and institutes. These include labs within the Center for Cyber-Physical Systems (C2PS), the KU Center for Autonomous Robotics Systems (KUCARS), and the KU Center for Digital Supply Chain and Operations Management, depending on their chosen specialization (e.g., Data Science, Robotics, Cybersecurity).
Industry-Standard Software & Tools: While specific applications are not listed, the research-centric nature of the program implies the use of professional-grade tools relevant to each specialization, such as machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), robotics simulators (Gazebo, ROS), cybersecurity analysis tools, and high-performance computing clusters.
Industry and Community Engagement: The program encourages practical application through industrial projects and community service. Students may engage in collaborative projects with industry partners or apply their skills to address community needs, linking academic knowledge with real-world impact.
Comprehensive University Resources: Students utilize the full resources of Khalifa University, including its university libraries with extensive digital collections, high-performance computing infrastructure, and the collaborative ecosystem of its research centers and institutes.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Sharjah's MSc in Computer Engineering master advanced topics in computer architecture, neural networks, real-time embedded systems, network security, cryptography, and reconfigurable computing through a 33-credit thesis-based program emphasizing research methodologies and optimization. This equips them for innovative roles in UAE's tech landscape, including network design, embedded IC development, IT security, and software engineering, with high employability through required refereed publications.

Career Support & Opportunities:

University Services: Career & Professional Development team offers personalized coaching, job placement, internships, and alumni networks targeting Sharjah/Dubai tech sectors.
Employment Stats & Salary: 90%+ placement rate; UAE computer engineering master's graduates earn AED 20,000–35,000 monthly starting in hardware/networks.
Partnerships: Industry collaborations support thesis projects in cloud computing, robotics, and VLSI for direct recruitment.
Accreditation Value: UAE MoE-recognized with publication mandates, ensuring GCC/international engineering mobility.
Outcomes: Graduates advance to senior roles in digital systems or research leadership within 3–5 years.

Further Academic Progression: Post-MSc, pursue PhD in Computer Engineering/AI at Sharjah or UAE/UK partners; interdisciplinary options in engineering-psychology or certs (e.g., CCNA Security) align with media/computing interests.