Tennessee Technological University

What you'll study

The programme combines core theory, laboratory practice and research in communications, electronics and signal processing. Students typically choose between a thesis (research) and a non‑thesis (coursework/project) route. Core topics covered across the programme include digital communications, information theory, advanced digital signal processing, and RF/microwave systems.

• Digital Communications and Coding — modulation and demodulation techniques, channel models, error control coding and performance analysis.
• Advanced Digital Signal Processing — multirate DSP, adaptive filtering, spectral estimation and applied algorithms for communications.
• Wireless Systems and Networking — cellular systems, wireless protocols, network architecture and link-level design.
• RF and Microwave Engineering — antennas, propagation, RF front ends and practical measurement techniques.
• Electronics and VLSI for Communications — mixed‑signal circuits, data converters and system‑level integration.
• Electives and Topics — may include optical communications, MIMO systems, machine learning for communications, embedded systems and cybersecurity for networks.
• Research/Capstone — thesis students undertake original research under faculty supervision; non‑thesis students complete a project or additional coursework.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronic engineering, computer engineering or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution. Typical admissions documentation includes official transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency (for example through recognised tests or prior instruction in English) and may be asked to submit additional academic credentials.

Academic prerequisites commonly expected are undergraduate coursework in circuits, signals and systems, electromagnetics and basic communications or digital signal processing. Admissions may consider applicants with strong quantitative preparation from other fields on a case‑by‑case basis; those missing specific prerequisites are often required to take bridge courses.

Career prospects

Graduates enter roles across industry and research in areas such as wireless and mobile communications, RF systems, satellite and broadband networks, and signal processing for sensing and imaging. Typical job titles include Communications Engineer, RF/Systems Engineer, Wireless Systems Designer, Signal Processing Engineer, Network Architect and Test or Validation Engineer. The degree also prepares students for doctoral study and careers in academic or industrial research labs.

Employers range from telecommunications operators and equipment vendors to defence contractors, semiconductor companies, startups developing IoT and 5G/6G technologies, and research organisations focused on communications and sensing.

Why study at Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Technological University offers a hands‑on, applied engineering education with close faculty mentoring and access to well‑equipped electronics and communications laboratories. The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering has active research programmes in communications and signal processing, providing opportunities for students to participate in funded projects and collaborative work with industry partners.

The campus environment emphasises small class sizes and direct interaction with faculty, helping students develop both theoretical depth and practical design skills. The programme’s mix of coursework, laboratory experience and research/project options is designed to prepare graduates for immediate technical roles or continued study in engineering and related fields.