The ECE department offers two Master of Science (M.S.) programs and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program. The Ph.D. program is offered under the common umbrella of the school.
Master of Science Programs
The ECE department offers Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Electrical and Computer Engineering as well as in Systems Engineering. The objectives and admission requirements for these programs are as follows.
M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering
The M.S. program in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) is aimed at students who are interested in acquiring advanced knowledge and skills in the traditional ECE areas. Normally, a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering with a GPA of 3.0 or better is required for admission.
To fulfill the requirements for a M.S. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, a student must complete at least 32 credits of graduate-level work. First they build a solid foundation by completing 20-24 credits of coursework from two course-groups, Theory and Required Courses. Subsequently, they are encouraged to choose 8-12 credits of coursework from one of the depth areas, namely, communications, computers, controls, electronics, and energy. However, students may also choose any combination of elective courses listed under the above depth areas.
M.S. in Systems Engineering
The M.S. program in systems engineering is designed to prepare students for significant engineering-related careers in industry as well as simultaneously for further graduate study. Normally, a bachelor’s degree in any engineering discipline with a GPA of 3.0 or better is required for admission.
The program has five distinct options. The dynamic systems and control engineering option and the robotics engineering option are administered by the ECE Department. The industrial and systems engineering option is administered by the Industrial and Systems Engineering Department. The remaining two options, System modeling and computer simulation, and General Systems engineering, are jointly administered by the ECE and ISE departments. To fulfill the requirements for a M.S. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, a student must complete at least 32 credits of graduate-level work.
Each of the master's programs offers thesis and non-thesis options. The thesis option allows a student to work on a sizeable research and development project under the supervision of a faculty advisor that culminates in a set of findings reported in a formal presentation and report. The thesis option is strongly recommended for students who want to pursue a research-oriented carrier. In the non-thesis option, the student is required to substitute depth courses for a thesis.
For more information including the admission requirements, financial aid and application, please see SECS Graduate Catalog.
Doctor of Philosophy Program
A Ph.D. program in Systems Engineering is offered under the common umbrella of the school. It is designed for students who plan careers in industrial or governmental research and development laboratories or problem-oriented agencies, as well as in the academic field. Normally a master’s degree from an accredited institution is required for admission; however students with outstanding undergraduate records may apply directly for admission to the doctoral program.
After admission to the program, and prior to earning 16 credits of coursework, students must form an advisory committee, which will direct and guide the progress of their studies and research. Such a committee is composed of four faculty members, one of which serves as the chair. Before selecting a chair, students are encouraged to explore Faculty Research Areas and talk to individual faculty about possible research areas.
Students can begin their doctoral studies on a part-time basis, availing themselves of the afternoon or evening courses while working full time in local industry. However, later phases of study and research will require full-time devotion to the program.
For more information including the admission requirements, financial aid and application, please see SECS Graduate Catalog.
