In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, one critical element is still missing in the equation of innovation—women. While technology continues to transform every aspect of our lives, women remain significantly underrepresented in the field, particularly in computer engineering. At SDSU Global Campus, we’re committed to changing this narrative by empowering and supporting the next generation of female computer engineers who will shape tomorrow’s technological solutions.

The Current Landscape

Recent data paints a telling picture: women make up only 35% of tech jobs in the U.S. and less than a third of the world’s workforce in technology-related fields, according to The World Bank. The gender gap becomes even more pronounced in specific disciplines, with women accounting for just 21.3% of Bachelor’s degrees in computer and information sciences and 22% in Engineering and Engineering Technology.

While progress has been made—female representation in STEM growing from 8% in 1970 to 28% by 2019—leadership positions remain particularly challenging to attain, with women holding only 11% of executive roles in tech. Even at major tech companies like Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon and Microsoft, female employees comprise between just 29% and 45% of the workforce.

This isn’t merely a women’s issue but a significant economic and societal challenge. Diverse teams consistently demonstrate greater innovation and productivity. According to McKinsey & Company, closing the gender gap could add an estimated $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025.

Breaking Barriers at SDSU Global Campus

Dr. Mahasweta Sarkar

At SDSU Global Campus, we recognize our responsibility in addressing this imbalance. Our online Master of Science in Computer Engineering program provides flexible, accessible education that empowers women to advance in technical fields while balancing other life commitments.

“As a woman in computer engineering, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative this field can be—not just for innovation, but for economic and social mobility. Encouraging more women to enter this space isn’t just about equity; it’s about unlocking an entire dimension of untapped talent and perspective. Representation inspires possibility, and when young women see others like them succeeding in tech, it becomes a powerful catalyst for change. However, inspiring and empowering the next generation of women in tech starts with exposure, visibility, mentorship, and a culture that affirms their place in the room,” says Dr. Mahasweta Sarkar, Senior Associate Dean at SDSU Global Campus and SDSU Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Through specialized mentorship programs, networking events and industry connections, we provide female students with the support system necessary to navigate and succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Strategies for Empowerment

Our approach to empowering women in computer engineering extends beyond the classroom:

  • Inclusive learning environments: Our virtual classrooms are designed to encourage participation and collaboration among all students.
  • Industry connections: Regular webinars with successful women in tech provide students with visible role models and networking opportunities.
  • Specialized resources: Targeted scholarships, fellowships and research opportunities help remove financial barriers for female students.

Looking Forward

As technology continues to evolve, so do the opportunities for women in computer engineering. Emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data science offer new frontiers where diverse perspectives are not just valuable, but essential.

SDSU Global Campus remains committed to preparing women to lead in these emerging areas through our comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Our online Master of Science in Computer Engineering program equips students with the advanced technical skills and leadership capabilities needed to excel in tomorrow’s technology landscape.

We invite prospective students, industry partners and technology advocates to join us in our mission to increase female representation in computer engineering. Together, we can build a more diverse, innovative, and equitable tech industry that benefits from the full spectrum of human talent and creativity.

For more information about our programs or to learn how you can support women in computer engineering, visit our website at globalcampus.sdsu.edu