Northern Kentucky University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines core engineering science and mathematics with focused study in electronic systems. You will study circuit analysis, analogue and digital electronics, signals and systems, microprocessors and embedded systems, control systems, power electronics, and communications. Coursework emphasises both theory and laboratory practice, with guided lab work in analogue/digital circuit construction, PCB design, microcontroller programming, and measurement and instrumentation.

Typical components include:

• Foundations in calculus, differential equations and linear algebra
• Core electrical and electronic courses: circuit theory, electronics, signals and systems
• Specialist topics: microcontrollers and embedded systems, digital systems design, power systems and power electronics, control theory, and communications
• Laboratory and project courses providing hands‑on experience with oscilloscopes, function generators, PCB prototyping, FPGA development boards and software tools for simulation and design
• Design sequence culminating in a senior capstone project where teams define, design and deliver an engineered product or system
• General education and professional skills: technical communication, ethics, project management and elective technical depth or breadth

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics and science. Typical successful applicants will have studied algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus (or precalculus), together with high‑school physics. Colleges may consider transfer students with completed college‑level calculus and physics courses.

Other common expectations:

• Competitive academic record in relevant STEM subjects
• Placement testing or algebra/calculus readiness assessments may be required to place into the correct mathematics sequence
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency (for example via recognised tests or institutional pathways)
• Applicants with practical experience in electronics, robotics clubs, internships or related activities strengthen their application

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in electrical/electronic engineering go into a wide range of technical roles across industry. Common entry‑level positions include electronics engineer, embedded systems engineer, test and validation engineer, controls engineer, field service engineer, and applications or design engineer.

Employment sectors include consumer electronics, automotive and mobility systems, industrial automation, power and energy, telecommunications, medical devices, manufacturing and defence. Many graduates also pursue graduate study in electrical engineering or related disciplines, or move into engineering management, technical sales, or product development roles.

Why study at Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University offers a hands‑on, student‑centred engineering education with a focus on applied learning. Students benefit from dedicated laboratories, real‑world capstone projects, and opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research and community technology initiatives. The university’s location near a major urban centre provides access to regional employers, internships and cooperative education placements, helping students build professional experience while studying.

Small class sizes and accessible faculty mentorship support skill development in both technical and professional areas, while campus career services assist with internship placement, career planning and employer connections to launch graduates into engineering careers.