Computer Architecture: Courses, Universities, Interview Questions, Scope

Computer architecture is a fundamental concept that is at the core of computer components and functions. It deals with the design and organization of computer systems, including hardware and software components. It involves understanding the different layers of a computer system and how they work together to perform specific tasks.

In a Computer Architecture course, various specialisations can be opted for. It has various branches and universities around the world researching it while also imparting knowledge on the subject. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the field, computer architecture courses, types, best universities, interview questions, and the scope of this field.

Popular Course	UG BSc in Computer Science BSc in Computer Architecture  BTech in Computer Architecture  PG MSc in Computer Architecture  M.Tech in Computer Architecture  MA in Computer Architecture
Course Duration	UG: 3-4 Years PG: 2 Years
Course Eligibility	UG: 10+2 with a minimum of 50% PG: Graduate with a minimum of 50%
Average Fee	UG: 4-10 LPA PG: 4-6 LPA
Average Salary	UG: 4-6 LPA  PG:5-15 LPA

Basic Computer Courses List That You Should Know About

Why Pursue Computer Architecture Course?

The purpose of studying Computer Organisation and Architecture is to understand the depth of knowledge of computer characteristics and structure:  

• This course helps us to understand the functionality of the computer and its operating system
• The study of Computer Architecture helps to understand the code and its very helpful when you are writing code for an embedded system
• Computer Architecture helps us to understand computer functionality, design, and compatibility  

Course Components

The course offers knowledge about various fields of Computers and their applications. It is an extensive course that offers a complete knowledge of computer organisation and architecture to its students. The various topics explored in the course include:

• Computer Organization
• Computer Engineering
• Assembly Language
• Computer Hardware
• Instruction Set Architecture
• Operating System Creation
• Computer Basics
• Computer Science
• Build a Computer
• Operating System
• Robot Operating System (ROS)
• Digital Circuit Design
• Computer Network
• Computer Repair and Maintenance
• Computer Skills
• Microprocessors
• FPGA
• Verilog HDL Programming

Students sometimes also choose to go for Cloud computing architecture. This discipline majorly deals with building online storage and workspaces on a cloud. The course is very popular as well as rewarding in terms of knowledge and placements.

Types Of Computer Architecture

There are two main types:

1. Von Neumann Architecture: This architecture is named after John von Neumann, who proposed the concept in the 1940s. It involves a single bus system that connects the CPU, memory, and input/output devices.
2. Harvard Architecture: This architecture separates the memory and CPU, using separate buses for each. This allows for faster processing times and is often used in embedded systems.

Also, Read – List of Major Computer Engineering Subjects

Top Universities Offering Computer Architecture Courses

We have researched the top colleges offering computer architecture programs according to the QS World University Rankings

Universities	QS Ranking 2023
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT	1
Stanford University	3
University of Cambridge	2
Harvard University	5
Imperial College London	6
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	6
The University of Oxford	4

Courses and Eligibility

There are various courses available to study computer architecture, and professionals in this field are in high demand. It is important for a candidate to fulfil all these admission requirements to get admission in a Computer Architecture course abroad. Students must also note here that each college or university may have its specific admission criteria of which we have provided a general overview.

Courses	Eligibility
Popular UG program BSc Sofware engineering BA In Computer Science BS in Computer Science B.Tech in Computer Architecture	Student Needs to complete 10+2 with one additional subject computer or Information Practices in 12th standard At least 55% marks are required for admission in this course
Popular PG program MSc in Computer Science MSc in Computer Architecture MA Computer Architecture MSc in Advance Computer Architecture Design	Student Must be Graduated in BSc computer science, Architecture or any other related field and Passed with a Minimum of 55%

Also, Read – How To Become Information Architect In India 

Skills Required to Become a Computer Architecture

There is always a checklist of what one might require on the way. So, on the journey to becoming a Computer Architecture candidates will need the following skills to be competitive in the emerging market.

• Critical Thinking
• Problem-Solving
• C+, C++
• Cloud Computing
• Java 
• Dept knowledge of CPU
• Knowledge of Operating Systems 

How to get Admission to a Computer Architecture Program? 

The admission process depends upon the university’s requirements, given step gives you an idea but the admission process:

• Shortlist a specialisation for yourself in the field.
• Research universities and colleges offering the course.
• Look for the coursework that best covers your requirements.
• Check eligibility criteria as well as application deadlines for the shortlisted universities.
• Then you need to fill out the application form from the preferred universities.
• You can fill admission form online on the official university websites.
• Keep your documents handy for all the stages of admissions, visa and other formalities. Check the minimum marks required in academics, and English proficiency scores required in IELTS, TOEFL or PTE whichever you choose to give.
• The score on English tests can vary, according to the university and country you are applying to. The rough estimate for an eligible score for IELTS is generally 7 overall, for TOEFL it is above 91, and for PTE it is above 57.
• If your application is shortlisted the university might call you for an interview. After getting selected in which you will receive your offer letter.
• Make arrangements for Passport, Visa, Immigration, Funds, Forex, Accommodation etc. Visa process will also involve an interview.

Document Required 

At every stage of the admission and immigration process, a candidate will need to submit copies of their documents. It is essential to have a checklist of these documents as well as digital as well as hard copies of the documents at all times.

• SOP
• LOR
• Passport
• Updated Resume
• Passport size Photographs
• Academic Transcript 

Interview Questions

As you will have to go through interview rounds at various stages. Here are some common interview questions related to your field:

1. What is computer architecture and why is it important?
2. What are the main components of a computer system?
3. What is the difference between Von Neumann and Harvard architectures?
4. What is cache memory and why is it important?
5. What are the different types of instruction sets?

Career Scope

The field of computer architecture is vast and ever-evolving. As technology continues to advance, the need for professionals with expertise in computer architecture will only grow. Computer architects are needed in a wide range of industries, including the tech sector, finance, and healthcare. Some potential career paths in this field include computer systems analyst, computer hardware engineer, and software developer.

Jobs Prospect with Salary 

Computer Architecture is a broad field with this course you can explore all the given job opportunities:

Job Profile	Average Starting Salary
Computer Systems Analyst	4LPA
Database Administrator	5LPA
Computer Hardware Engineer	4.5LPA
Software Developer	4.8LPA
Network Architect	8LPA

Country-Wise Salary

The below table includes the country-wise salary for Computer Architecture:

Countries	Average Pay (Annual)
India	10Lakhs
USA	70Lakhs
UK	63Lakhs
Canada	65Lakhs

Top Companies & Recruiters for Computer Architectures

 These are the top hiring companies, that hire Computer Architecture professionals.

• IBM
• Cognizant
• TATA 
• Phillips
• Accenture
• Oracle
• Titeoveary 

Also, Read- How To Become a Software Engineer 

FAQs

This article is all about Computer Architecture and includes all the details about Computer Architecture, if you want to explore more courses, you can reach out to Leverage edu, and our expert will help you to know more about the different courses for more information you can call on this no. 1800 57 2000 and book your free counselling session with us