AMES — The University of Iowa sought regent approval for the creation of a new program — a bachelor of science in engineering in computer engineering.

Housed in the UI College of Engineering, the proposal aims to shift the existing computer track in the electrical engineering major to a standalone computer engineering major.

“This will improve clarity for prospective students, making it easier for them to identify and select a major that aligns with their interests and career goals,” Tanya Uden-Holman, associate provost for Undergraduate Education at the UI, said. 

Uden-Holman said graduates will also benefit from having a degree title that aligns with expectations and will aid in a competitive job market.

When looking at needs for the department, Uden-Holman said students have increasingly been requesting a specific computer engineering major.

Uden-Holman said this demand is even greater due to the “disruptive” impact of artificial intelligence, or AI.

“Although computer science enrollment has declined nationwide, driven in part by concerns that AI may unmute certain software development, computer engineering enrollments have remained steady,” Uden-Holman said.

Uden-Holman cited data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of computer hardware engineers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2024 to 2034.

According to board documents, the degree is projected to have an enrollment of 50 students by the first year, hitting 200 students by year five.

According to board documents, the proposed computer engineering major doesn’t require new financial aid due to the curriculum already being offered through the computer track of the electrical engineering major.